Julia Koch
Warm, savory, and baked until golden, Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is comfort food that truly earns its place at the dinner table. This hearty dish layers well-seasoned beef with tender potatoes and vegetables, all baked together into a no-fuss weeknight meal that satisfies every craving. With its rich flavors and rustic charm, it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone back for seconds.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family or preparing make-ahead meals for the week, this casserole delivers on ease and flavor. Its simple ingredients come together with minimal prep, and the result is a bubbling, delicious bake that tastes like it took hours. Budget-friendly and packed with classic flavors, Hobo Casserole is a go-to dish for cozy evenings and family gatherings.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work beautifully here. Yukon Gold offers a naturally buttery taste and holds its shape well, while Russets bring a fluffier texture and absorb the flavors of the beef mixture. Thin slices help the potatoes cook evenly and soak up all the juices from the beef and vegetables.
Ingredients for the Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Ground Beef – The backbone of this dish. Choose 80/20 ground beef for flavor and richness.
Potatoes – Thinly sliced Yukon Golds or Russets give you the best texture and taste.
Carrots and Celery – These veggies add earthy sweetness and a subtle crunch, balancing the richness of the beef.
Onion – A classic aromatic that adds depth and rounds out the savory flavor.
Garlic – Just a couple of cloves enhance the beef and vegetables with a warm undertone.
Tomato Paste – Adds depth and slight acidity to cut through the richness.
Beef Broth – Keeps everything juicy and flavorful while the casserole bakes.
Cheddar Cheese (optional) – A sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top adds a gooey, golden finish.
Parsley – Fresh parsley brightens the finished dish and adds a touch of color.
How To Make the Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks. Once it’s browned and no longer pink, drain off the excess fat. Stir in the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build Flavor with Veggies and Tomato Paste
Add the diced carrots and celery to the skillet. Sauté until slightly tender, then stir in the tomato paste. Cook it for a couple of minutes to develop its flavor, then pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Layers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish. Begin layering thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spoon over a portion of the beef and vegetable mixture. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Garnish
If using cheddar, sprinkle it on top during the last 10 minutes of baking, just enough time to melt and turn golden. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving and Storing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to round out the meal. It holds its shape beautifully when sliced, making it ideal for family-style servings.
Leftovers? They reheat like a dream. Simply cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, portion and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Hobo Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I swap out the ground beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe.
What if I don’t have tomato paste?
You can substitute with a few tablespoons of tomato sauce or ketchup. Just reduce the broth slightly to prevent the dish from becoming too liquidy.
Should I peel the potatoes?
It depends on your preference. Yukon Golds have thin skins and don’t require peeling, but Russets benefit from it.
How do I know when it’s done?
The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the top layer should be golden brown. If you insert a knife, it should slide through the layers easily.
Can I add more vegetables?
Of course! Mushrooms, peas, or even bell peppers can be added for more variety and nutrition.
Want More Casserole Dinner Ideas?
You might also like the Sloppy Joe Casserole, a bold and saucy dish that brings a nostalgic punch. Or give the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole a shot for a creamy, veggie-forward comfort meal.
Craving more spice? The Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a cheesy, meaty twist that layers your favorite pizza flavors into a hearty bake. The Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is also a great pick if you’re looking for pasta baked to perfection.
For something with a lighter touch but still rich in taste, try the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni. It’s indulgent but balanced, and just as comforting.
Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out
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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try it with turkey? Add mushrooms? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a cozy, oven-baked dish that layers seasoned beef, sliced potatoes, and vegetables into one hearty casserole. It’s an easy and comforting meal that feeds a crowd and makes excellent leftovers.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in carrots and celery. Cook until slightly tender.
- Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Spoon over half the beef mixture. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and potatoes are tender.
- If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dinner
