Description
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Hobo Casserole Italian Style, a hearty one-pan meal packed with ground beef, marinara sauce, melted cheese, and tender potatoes or pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced or 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, etc.)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Optional: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and color.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Cook the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft. Add garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Layer the casserole:
Spread half the potatoes or pasta at the bottom.
Add half the meat sauce.
Spread a layer of ricotta (if using).
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
Repeat layers.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake 35–40 minutes (or 25–30 if using pasta). Remove foil and bake 10 minutes more, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with basil or parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Add veggies: Mix in mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Go spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Cheese upgrade: Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for richer flavor.
- Freezer-friendly: Cool completely before freezing for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes