This comforting hamburger potato casserole is the perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and satisfying. Layers of ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce come together to create a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a quick dinner for yourself, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the beef)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir well until the soup and milk are fully blended into a smooth, creamy sauce. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Assemble the Casserole: Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a portion of the sliced potatoes. Top with half of the cooked ground beef, followed by a third of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
Add the Sauce: Pour the creamy soup and milk mixture evenly over the layers of potatoes and beef in the casserole dish. Spread it out with a spatula to ensure even coverage.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. Slice into squares and serve warm!
Serving Suggestions:
This easy hamburger potato casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top before serving.
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of mushroom? Yes! If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a cheddar cheese soup for extra cheesiness.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes? Yes, frozen hash browns can work as a substitute for fresh potatoes. Just layer them directly in the casserole in place of the sliced potatoes, and you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly since they’re already pre-cooked.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to make this casserole even more hearty and nutritious. Just sauté the vegetables before layering them in the casserole dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can substitute it with any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
Helpful Tips:
Use thinly sliced potatoes: The thinner you slice the potatoes, the quicker they will cook and become tender. You can use a mandolin slicer to ensure even, thin slices.
Don’t skip the foil: Covering the casserole with foil while baking ensures the potatoes cook evenly and become soft without drying out. Just make sure to uncover it towards the end to get that beautiful, golden cheese crust.
Seasoning is key: Make sure to season the ground beef and the sauce well with salt and pepper, as the potatoes need the extra flavor to complement the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts:
This easy hamburger potato casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings together simple ingredients for a deliciously satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, tasty dinner that the whole family will enjoy. With creamy potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese, every bite is a comforting delight. Try it tonight and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!