Is there anything more comforting than a warm casserole fresh from the oven? Picture this: layers of tender potatoes smothered in creamy goodness and topped with savory ground beef. Welcome to the world of Hamburger Potato Casserole, a dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

This recipe not only brings together familiar ingredients but also evokes memories of cozy family gatherings around the dining table. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers where everyone can dig into a hearty meal. Each bite promises a blend of savory meatiness and creamy potato bliss that will leave you craving more. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful comfort food that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Casserole

Quick and Easy Preparation: This Hamburger Potato Casserole comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly Flavor: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this casserole appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a highly adaptable recipe that suits any taste.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides the savory base of the casserole.
Potatoes: Opt for russet or Yukon gold potatoes as they create a fluffy texture once baked.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile; finely chop before cooking.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top, adding richness and gooeyness to each serving.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This acts as a creamy binder; use low-fat versions if desired for lighter casseroles.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with chopped onions until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Slice your potatoes thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife. The thinner they are, the quicker they will cook.

Step 4: Layer Ingredients

In your greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the cooked beef mixture on top followed by half of the cream of mushroom soup.

Step 5: Repeat Layers

Repeat with another layer using remaining potatoes and beef mixture. Finish off by pouring any leftover soup over everything.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese before covering the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for about 45 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender. Remove foil in the last ten minutes for a golden-brown cheese crust.

Transfer to plates and serve hot for an unforgettable meal.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Uniform Slicing: Ensure all potato slices are even so they cook uniformly during baking.
Add Vegetables: Consider layering spinach or bell peppers along with meat for extra nutrition.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for about ten minutes after baking; this helps it set up nicely.

Serving Suggestions

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole, adding freshness to your meal.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that enhances the flavors of the casserole.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans steamed lightly can provide a nutritious side that balances the dish’s heartiness.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Hamburger Potato Casserole?

To make Hamburger Potato Casserole, you will need ground beef, potatoes, onion, garlic, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Can I prepare Hamburger Potato Casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Hamburger Potato Casserole in advance. Simply assemble the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook it, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown top.

How do I store leftover Hamburger Potato Casserole?

To store leftover Hamburger Potato Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers.

Can I make Hamburger Potato Casserole without meat?

Absolutely. You can easily make a vegetarian version of Hamburger Potato Casserole by substituting ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or mushrooms. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of soup for added flavor.

Hamburger Potato Casserole

Save Recipe

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting meal that layers tender potatoes with savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and seasonings, all baked to perfection. It’s a simple, family-friendly casserole that makes for an easy weeknight dinner. The combination of potatoes and ground beef, topped with melted cheese, makes it an irresistible dish that everyone will enjoy.

Author: Mason Recipes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups frozen hash browns or thinly sliced fresh potatoes
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in the cooked beef mixture, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a layer of frozen hash browns or sliced potatoes.
- Spread the beef and cheese mixture evenly over the potatoes.
Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy this hearty, cheesy casserole!

Notes

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Vegetarian Option: You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian version.
Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables such as peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

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