Print

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

A simple, hearty, and comforting Hobo Casserole made with ground beef, potatoes, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and a crowd-pleasing family favorite that’s filling and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix recommended)

Vegetables

  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced or cubed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or a mix)

Other Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups tomato sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional herbs: thyme, rosemary, or parsley

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains and the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté the Onion, Garlic, and Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
  3. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice potatoes thinly or cube them evenly. Optionally, parboil for 5 minutes to speed cooking or leave raw for firmer texture.
  4. Combine Ingredients in a Baking Dish: Grease a casserole dish. Layer half the potatoes at the bottom. Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the potatoes. Pour tomato sauce over the filling, then cover with remaining potato slices. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking.
  • Drain excess fat after browning to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Use a sharp knife for clean potato slices and easier layering.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking so it holds its shape when served.

Nutrition

Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, one-pan meal, family dinner, ground beef recipe