If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner that requires minimal effort and ingredients, this 5-Ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole is the perfect solution. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a comforting and delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheese creates a hearty and flavorful meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and develops a golden, bubbly top.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess fat. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. This will add a base of savory flavor to the casserole.
3. Prepare the Potatoes
While the beef is cooking, thinly slice the potatoes. You want the slices to be about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook through properly in the casserole. If you prefer, you can peel the potatoes, but leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients.
4. Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the milk. Stir until smooth and well combined. This mixture will create a creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.
5. Layer the Ingredients
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Then, spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes. Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef, spreading it out evenly. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and soup mixture.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and form a deliciously gooey topping as the casserole bakes.
7. Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy this hearty dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: To make this dish even more nutritious, consider adding vegetables like sliced carrots, peas, or corn. These can be layered between the beef and potatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Cream of Chicken Substitute: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can easily substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
- Extra Seasoning: For more flavor, you can add a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the beef while cooking. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be added to the soup mixture for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or busy weeknights.
This 5-Ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for those nights when you need a quick and easy dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty and delicious meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just short on time, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic casserole, and don’t forget to make extra for leftovers—they’re just as tasty the next day
