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A comforting and hearty casserole featuring layers of browned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and melted cheese, baked together into a complete, soul-warming meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Thinly slice 4–5 medium potatoes.
  3. Chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves garlic.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
  6. Drain excess fat from the beef.
  7. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
  8. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  9. Arrange the sliced potatoes over the beef in an even layer.
  10. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
  11. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan over the potatoes.
  12. Pour 1/2 cup beef broth or water around the edges of the casserole and drizzle 1/4 cup milk over the top if using.
  13. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake 30 minutes.
  14. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  15. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Slice potatoes thinly to ensure even cooking and tenderness., Brown the ground beef well and drain excess fat for better flavor and less grease., Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or broccoli for more nutrition and color., Season generously with salt, pepper, and spices like paprika to enhance the flavors., Covering the casserole during baking keeps it moist and prevents dry potatoes., Let the casserole rest before serving to allow layers to settle for easier slicing., Serve with a fresh salad, steamed green beans or broccoli, and garlic bread for a well-rounded meal., Variations include swapping ground beef for turkey, chicken, plant-based proteins, or adding bacon and jalapeños for flavor twists., Use dairy-free cheeses to make a vegan-friendly version., The casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mamapantry.com/why-hobo-casserole-ground-beef-is-great-3/