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Savory Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe Easy Hearty Meal Idea

hobo casserole ground beef recipe - featured image

A hearty and comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for quick family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch / 3 mm thick)
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (75 g) frozen peas or carrots

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash and peel the russet potatoes, then slice them thinly—about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme while cooking.
  6. Stir in 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce and 1 cup beef broth. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly and infuse flavor.
  7. Grease your baking dish with the remaining butter.
  8. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish.
  9. Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
  10. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  11. Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.
  12. If using frozen peas or carrots, sprinkle them between layers or on top before the final cheese layer.
  13. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to thicken and make slicing easier.

Notes

If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Use a mandoline slicer for even thin potato slices. Let the casserole rest after baking for easier slicing and better flavor melding. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter version. Dairy-free options include plant-based cheese and olive oil instead of butter. This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Nutrition

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