Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that will bring warmth and satisfaction to your table? This Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort dish for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hamburger Potato Casserole stands out for its simplicity and hearty flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone looking for a tasty and filling meal, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s:

• Kid-friendly: The combination of beef, potatoes, and cheese is a guaranteed win with little ones.
• Easy to customize: You can swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for leftovers: This dish tastes just as good the next day, making it great for meal prep.
• Budget-friendly: It uses affordable, everyday ingredients that pack a lot of flavor without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for the Perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole

To create this satisfying casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds of ground beef
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 2 lbs)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 8 oz)
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to form a rich and savory casserole with layers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese.

this RECIPE

Essential Equipment You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment to make the process smooth:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: For baking the casserole.
• Large skillet: To brown the ground beef.
• Cutting board and knife: For slicing the potatoes and chopping the onion.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly. While the oven is heating, peel and thinly slice your potatoes. It’s important to slice them evenly so they cook through at the same time. Next, chop the onion.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the pan. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.

Season the beef and onion mixture with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. These spices will infuse the meat with savory flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Layers

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and ¾ cup of milk until smooth. This mixture will add creaminess to the casserole without overwhelming the flavors.

In your greased 9×13 inch baking dish, start by laying down a layer of thinly sliced potatoes. Top this with half of the browned beef and onion mixture. Pour half of the soup mixture evenly over the top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Repeat the process by layering the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and the final cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, allowing the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

After the first hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the top to become golden and bubbly while ensuring the potatoes are fully cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Tips for Preparing the Ingredients

• Even potato slices: For consistent cooking, slice the potatoes as evenly as possible. Using a mandolin slicer can help ensure uniform thickness.
• Cheese options: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this casserole, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for extra flavor.
• Ground meat alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. The casserole will still be hearty and delicious!

Layering the Casserole: Key to a Perfect Dish

The secret to a great Hamburger Potato Casserole lies in the layering. Make sure each layer is even, especially the potatoes. This ensures that every bite has a balanced mix of beef, potato, and cheese. Also, don’t skip the soup mixture! It acts as the glue that holds the casserole together, giving it that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Baking Time and Temperature: Getting It Just Right

The total bake time for this dish is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Covering the dish for the first hour ensures the potatoes soften without drying out. Once uncovered, the casserole continues baking until the top is beautifully golden and crispy. If you notice the cheese browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with foil to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Potato Casserole

Serve this casserole as the main event of your meal, paired with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For added crunch, consider topping the casserole with crispy fried onions during the last 10 minutes of baking. This gives the dish a delightful texture contrast and extra flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the casserole, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not slicing potatoes evenly: Uneven slices can lead to undercooked or overcooked sections. Use a mandolin or a sharp knife for best results.
• Skipping the resting period: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving allows it to firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.

Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes! You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are fork-tender, and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Sliced carrots or peas would be great additions to this dish. Just layer them with the potatoes for an extra boost of nutrition.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a perfect comfort meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or making a dish to share, this casserole will surely hit the spot. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! If you love easy, hearty meals like this, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes straight to your inbox.

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