Introduction:
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, comfort food dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese in a one-pan meal. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a savory and filling option for any meal. The layers of tender potatoes, seasoned meat, and gooey cheese make it both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil or butter for greasing
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme (if using) until smooth.
Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with sliced potatoes, followed by a portion of the cooked beef mixture, and then a little bit of the soup mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of soup mixture on top.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Description:
This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a one-dish meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. The combination of ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy sauce makes this dish both satisfying and comforting. It’s an ideal choice for feeding a family, and it can even be prepped ahead of time for busy days. The creamy texture paired with the savory beef and melty cheese will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Tips:
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a low-fat or fat-free version.
For extra flavor, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
If you don’t have cheddar cheese, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese of your choice.
You can also add a bit of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the beef for an added kick.
Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly so they cook evenly throughout.
Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef with a plant-based protein such as lentils, mushrooms, or a vegetarian meat alternative.
Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños, chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
Cheesy Version: Layer the casserole with multiple types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, for a melty, cheesy experience.
Breakfast Version: Add scrambled eggs to the layers for a breakfast casserole, making it a perfect brunch option.
Correction:
If the potatoes are still not tender after the recommended bake time, cover the casserole with foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are fully cooked.
Enjoy!
Serve your Hamburger Potato Casserole hot, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!