If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty meal that delights the whole family, look no further than this hamburger potato casserole recipe! This dish combines tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese for a satisfying dinner any night of the week. Perfect for busy evenings, it’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 20g protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk; mix well.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased casserole dish.
- Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce for a different flavor profile. Use any type of cheese you prefer!
Serving and Pairings
This casserole is excellent on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can enhance the flavor even more.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave portions until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the browning of the meat; it adds depth of flavor.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced evenly for consistent cooking.
- Use a deep casserole dish to prevent overflow during baking.
- Watch the casserole closely towards the end to avoid over-browning.
- Let it cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
Helpful Tips
- Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
- Consider using leftover roast beef for a quicker option.
- Make it a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness.
Can I freeze hamburger potato casserole?
Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. It keeps well for about 2 months.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or skip it entirely and add more vegetables.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. A fork should easily pierce through the layers.
Conclusion
This hamburger potato casserole recipe is a fantastic, comforting dish that brings together classic flavors in a simple, satisfying way. It’s perfect for family dinners and will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite!
Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes sliced
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk; mix well.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased casserole dish.
- Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.
