Description
This hearty Hobo Casserole features ground beef layered with thinly sliced potatoes and a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with Italian herbs and paprika. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary for a leaner dish.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, bringing out their sweet flavors.
- Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top of the beef, seasoning them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika to infuse the dish with aroma and taste.
- Add Cheese and Liquids: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potato layer. Pour the beef broth or water around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist during baking. Optionally, drizzle milk over the top for added creaminess.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step lets the cheese become bubbly and golden and ensures the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a fresh herbal note, then serve hot for a truly comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute beef broth with water or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the milk to 1/3 cup or add a tablespoon of sour cream before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Make sure to slice potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.
