Introduction:
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese.
It’s a perfect family meal, ideal for busy weeknights or as a filling dish for a potluck. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
With layers of savory goodness, this casserole will warm you up and keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
1 medium onion, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
1 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Set aside.
Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Break it up into crumbles as it cooks.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Sauté the onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until softened.
Make the sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir until smooth.
Layer the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Then, add a layer of the cooked ground beef and onions mixture. Pour the sauce over the top, making sure the potatoes are covered.
Add cheese: Sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Description:
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. The layers of crispy potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and creamy sauce topped with melted cheese create a mouthwatering combination. The casserole is both filling and comforting, offering a well-rounded meal in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, potlucks, or as a weekend comfort food, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Tips:
Thinly slice the potatoes: This ensures they cook evenly and become tender by the time the casserole is ready.
Use a variety of cheese: For a different flavor, try mixing cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next day!
Add veggies: For extra nutrition, feel free to add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef mixture.
Variations:
Ground turkey or chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Vegan version: Use plant-based ground meat and a dairy-free cheese substitute for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly option.
Add bacon: For extra flavor, crumble some cooked bacon on top before baking for a smoky touch.
Cheesy variations: Use different cheeses such as Gouda, Swiss, or even a sharp blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Corrections:
Potato thickness: Make sure the potatoes are thinly sliced, as thicker slices may not cook through fully in the given baking time.
Check seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before baking. The flavor of the dish relies on the seasoning of both the beef mixture and the sauce.
Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole with your loved ones! It’s the perfect meal for any occasion, and it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone at the table.