This Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese all come together in a creamy sauce, making it a family favorite. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this casserole is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
While the beef is cooking, peel and thinly slice the potatoes. You want the slices to be about 1/4 inch thick so they cook evenly in the casserole.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish, then spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top. Pour half of the cream of mushroom soup mixture over the beef and potatoes, followed by 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, cream of mushroom mixture, and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. The layers of ground beef, potatoes, and cheesy sauce come together for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Cooking Notes:
- Potato Slicing: Using a mandoline slicer will help ensure even slices, which is important for consistent cooking.
- Extra Creaminess: For a richer casserole, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a bit of cream cheese to the soup mixture.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for a different flavor.
Variations:
1. Vegetable Hamburger Potato Casserole
Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans between the layers for extra nutrition and flavor.
2. Spicy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef for a little heat. You can also use a sharp cheddar cheese to boost the flavor.
3. Bacon Potato Casserole
Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers for a smoky, savory twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just make sure to season the turkey well, as it has a milder flavor.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole and cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
Q: How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
A: The potatoes should be fork-tender, meaning you can easily pierce them with a fork. If the potatoes are still firm, continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
This Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese all enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for feeding a family or serving at a potluck. Whether you’re making it ahead for convenience or serving it fresh out of the oven, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious flavors and satisfying textures of this classic dish!
