Introduction:
Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, all baked together into a deliciously satisfying casserole.
Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this dish offers a balance of savory flavors and textures in every bite.
It’s easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
4-5 medium potatoes (peeled and sliced thinly)
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or more, if desired)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
½ cup beef broth (optional for extra moisture)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes thinly, about ¼-inch thick. Set aside.
Cook the ground beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the beef broth if you’d like extra moisture in your casserole.
Layer the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. Top with the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour the cream sauce over the beef layer, making sure it covers everything.
Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and serve: Once done, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Description: This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a rich and comforting dish that offers a satisfying blend of flavors. The ground beef provides a savory base, while the potatoes become wonderfully tender and absorb the creamy, cheesy sauce. The creamy mushroom soup and sour cream combination gives the casserole its richness, while the melted cheese adds a layer of gooey goodness on top. It’s a dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tips:
For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to the ground beef mixture.
If you prefer a healthier version, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade creamy sauce made with low-fat sour cream and chicken broth.
If you like your potatoes extra crispy, uncover the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown nicely.
Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly so they cook evenly throughout the casserole.
Variations:
Cheesy Bacon Hamburger Casserole: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the ground beef mixture for a smoky flavor boost.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for some heat.
Taco Casserole: Use taco seasoning in place of the salt, pepper, and paprika, and top with diced tomatoes, lettuce, and sour cream after baking for a Tex-Mex twist.
Corrections:
Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly to help them cook evenly and quickly. Thicker slices may not cook through properly in the baking time.
If the casserole seems dry, you can add more beef broth or cream to the sauce to make it more creamy and moist.
Don’t forget to cover the casserole with foil during the first part of baking to keep the potatoes from drying out.
Enjoy! This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a perfect comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every bite.