When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats a hearty and satisfying Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. This delightful dish brings together layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, tender sliced potatoes, and, of course, the gooey goodness of melted cheese. It’s a family-friendly delight that not only fills your stomach but warms your heart, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Imagine digging into a big scoop of cheesy goodness that is not only easy to make but bursts with flavor in every bite.
This casserole is incredibly versatile; it can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s primarily made with simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, making it an economical and effortless cooking choice. Plus, the prep time is minimal, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Whether you’re trying to find a dish to serve during family gatherings or simply need something to feed a crowd, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Family Favorite: This dish is beloved by both kids and adults, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
- Comfort Food: It’s the perfect meal for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and hearty.
- Simple to Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this casserole up in no time.
- Meal Prep Advantage: It can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for convenience, ideal for busy lives.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To set yourself up for success while making the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You will need a 9×13-inch baking dish, which should be lightly greased with either non-stick cooking spray or a pat of butter to prevent sticking.
Gather your ingredients: ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet recommended), shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and seasonings. A skillet will be handy for browning the ground beef and onions. Having measuring cups and spoons will assist in accurately measuring out the milk and spices, ensuring that the flavors in the casserole are perfectly balanced.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, take your greased 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside. This dish will hold the casserole as it bakes, allowing all those delicious layers to meld together.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the chopped onions. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to break the beef apart and ensure even cooking. Once done, drain any excess fat, as this will help keep your casserole from becoming too greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir vigorously until you have a smooth mixture. This creamy sauce will not only enhance the flavor but also create a luscious texture throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Now it’s time to layer the ingredients! Start by placing half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Next, add half of the cooked ground beef and onion mix. Spoon half of the creamy sauce over this layer, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, making sure to finish with a generous layer of cheese on top. This will create an extra gooey and flavorful crust.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil, allowing it to bake for 45 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to steam the potatoes, making them tender. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender. Once it’s done, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps to set the layers, making it easier to serve.
Variations
- Protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, try using sausage for a bit more spice and flavor.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the ground beef mixture for additional vegetables and flavor. You can also use pre-cooked mixed vegetables for a quicker version.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning, cumin, or even taco seasoning for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes will yield the best texture; avoid waxy potatoes that won’t soften properly during baking.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a little kick.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time; simply assemble the layers and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to add freshness and balance to the meal.
- Pair it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to complete this comforting dish.
Tips
- If you’re short on time, consider using pre-sliced potatoes to save prep time.
- For a cheesy top, consider mixing different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella with your cheddar for added flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 21 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
FAQs
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade mixture of milk, flour, and seasonings if you prefer a healthier option.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the top should be nicely browned.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or any other veggies you enjoy. Just make sure they are pre-cooked to ensure everything bakes evenly.
Conclusion
Your search for the perfect family meal ends with this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. Rich, filling, and downright delicious, this dish brings families together around the dinner table. The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and layers of creamy potatoes, topped with gooey cheese is an irresistible delight that guarantees satisfaction. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing for variations based on your preferences. So go ahead, take a moment to try out this recipe, and feel free to let your creativity shine in the kitchen. Remember to share your experience in the comments below – we’d love to hear how your casserole turned out and the variations you tried!
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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A cheesy and hearty casserole that’s perfect for the family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, take your greased 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the chopped onions. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir vigorously until you have a smooth mixture.
- Layer the ingredients starting with half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the cooked ground beef mixture, half of the creamy sauce, and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Protein: 21 g