Description: A comforting and hearty casserole that combines ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cups potatoes, thinly sliced (about 2-3 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorites)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and add a touch of richness to the bottom layer.
Step 2: Prepare the meat mixture. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Be sure to break up the ground beef with a spoon as it cooks, so it cooks evenly. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole! Excess fat can make the dish heavy and unappetizing.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined. This creamy mixture will bind the casserole together and add a ton of flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking! A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole. This is where the magic happens! Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Try to slightly overlap the potato slices to create a sturdy base. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef. Now, pour half of the soup mixture over the layers, making sure to distribute it evenly.
Step 5: Repeat the layers. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, cheese, and soup mixture. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 6: Bake the casserole. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to trap the moisture and allow the potatoes to cook through evenly. Bake for 45 minutes.
Step 7: Add the finishing touch. Remove the foil and sprinkle the breadcrumbs (if using) evenly over the top of the casserole. The breadcrumbs will add a nice crispy texture and golden-brown color. Bake for another 15 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown, bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
Step 8: Cool and serve. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set up slightly and make it easier to slice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and feed a hungry family on a budget. What sets this recipe apart is the layering technique, which ensures that every component is evenly distributed throughout the casserole. The creamy mushroom soup adds a richness that complements the beef and potatoes perfectly. And the optional breadcrumb topping provides a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Cooking Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Taste: Savory, cheesy, comforting
- Overall: 5 stars
Serving Suggestions:
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and flavorful additions.
- Dinner Rolls: Warm dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a tangy and crunchy element to the meal.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad is a great way to end the meal on a sweet note.
Tips:
- Potato Variety: Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables, such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or celery, for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors make it a winner every time. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a warm and satisfying meal that will leave everyone feeling happy and content. This casserole is a testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most delicious. It’s a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive to be enjoyed. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It’s leaner and lower in fat, making it a healthier option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink.
Q2: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with plant-based ground meat substitute or with sauteed mushrooms and lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of milk in the soup mixture for a fully vegetarian option.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
A: Definitely! This casserole is very versatile, and you can add almost any vegetable you like. Some good options include diced carrots, bell peppers, celery, peas, or corn. Just be sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole, so they don’t end up too crunchy.
Q4: Can I use a different kind of soup?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different kinds of cream-based soups, such as cream of celery, cream of chicken, or cream of broccoli. Each soup will add a slightly different flavor to the casserole, so it’s fun to try new combinations.
Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time, as the casserole will be very cold.
