Oh, where do I even start with this heavenly hamburger potato casserole? It’s one of those comforting meals that wraps you in a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re just craving something hearty. I mean, who can resist the delightful combination of ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese? Trust me, this dish is a family favorite in my home, and it’s sure to become yours too!
Whenever I make this casserole, it brings back the fondest memories of family dinners where everyone gathers around the table, laughter filling the air as we dig into this deliciousness. The best part? It’s so easy to whip up! You just layer everything together, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Seriously, if you’re looking for a filling meal that’s both satisfying and simple, this hamburger potato casserole is the way to go!
Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious casserole. I promise, it’s all pretty straightforward!
- 1 pound ground beef – I like using lean ground beef for a healthier twist, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced – Yukon gold or russet potatoes work beautifully in this dish; just make sure they’re sliced thinly for even cooking.
- 1 onion, chopped – This adds a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor. I usually go for a yellow onion, but any onion will do!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The gooier, the better! You can mix it up with sharp cheddar or even a blend of cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup – This is the secret sauce that holds everything together! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, there are cream of chicken or even cheesy alternatives.
- 1 cup milk – This helps to thin out the soup and keep the casserole nice and creamy.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it makes all the difference in flavor!
How to Prepare Hamburger Potato Casserole
Now, let’s get into the fun part! Preparing this hamburger potato casserole is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you step-by-step so you can create this mouthwatering dish without a hitch. Ready? Let’s go!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the casserole cook evenly. You don’t want any cold spots when it’s time to dig in!
Brown the Beef and Onion
Next, grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add your pound of ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook them together until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is no longer pink, and the onions are soft and fragrant. That smell? Oh my goodness, it’s heavenly!
Layer the Potatoes
Now, let’s start layering! Take a greased baking dish and spread half of those beautifully sliced potatoes across the bottom. Make sure they’re evenly placed so every bite gets that tender, delicious potato goodness.
Add the Beef Mixture
Here comes the beefy goodness! Spoon your cooked beef and onion mixture over the layer of potatoes. Spread it out evenly so every forkful gets a bit of that savory filling. It’s like building a flavor fortress!
Mix and Pour the Soup Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix together the can of cream of mushroom soup and the cup of milk until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture is what ties everything together, trust me! Now, pour it over the beef layer, covering it like a cozy blanket.
Finish Layering and Season
Time to finish up the layers! Place the remaining sliced potatoes on top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy! This seasoning is what makes your casserole pop with flavor.
Bake the Casserole
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for about an hour. This gives the potatoes time to cook through and soak up all those delicious flavors. At the one-hour mark, check on it—you want those potatoes to be tender!
Add Cheese and Final Bake
Once the hour is up, carefully remove the foil (watch out for that steam!). Now, sprinkle your shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Because let’s be honest, more cheese is always a good idea! Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your hamburger potato casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve gathered along the way:
- Don’t skip the browning: Taking the time to brown the beef and onion adds so much flavor to the casserole. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
- Slice potatoes evenly: Aim for uniform thickness with your potato slices. This ensures they cook evenly—no one wants some mushy and some crunchy potatoes!
- Mix it up: Feel free to throw in some extras! Vegetables like peas or corn add a pop of color and nutrition. Just make sure they’re cooked or thawed before adding them in.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut and serve. Plus, it’ll be hot—so don’t burn your tongue!
- Storage magic: If you have leftovers (which you probably will), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for quick meals later on.
- Cheese lovers unite: If you’re a cheese fanatic like me, try adding different cheeses on top! A mix of mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack can take this casserole to a whole new level.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a hamburger potato casserole that will impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious hamburger potato casserole! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, which is about 1 cup. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this will give you a good idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This casserole packs a punch of flavor while still being a hearty meal! It’s a great option for those looking for a filling dish without going overboard. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re indulging in something delicious yet balanced!
FAQ about Hamburger Potato Casserole
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! While I love the classic flavor of ground beef, you can easily swap it out for other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works great if you’re looking for a lighter option. Even sausage can add a delicious twist! Just keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor slightly, but they’ll still blend beautifully with those comforting potatoes and cheese.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this casserole ahead of time! It’s a great make-ahead dish. Just assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time since it’ll be cold from the fridge. Perfect for busy days or meal prepping!
What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?
This hamburger potato casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with some sides can really elevate your meal! I love serving it with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli are also fabulous choices—they add some color and nutrients to the table! And if you’re feeling indulgent, some warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is always a hit to soak up those cheesy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Casserole
This hamburger potato casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings everyone together. Here’s why you’re going to adore it:
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can have this hearty dish ready with little fuss. Just layer, bake, and enjoy!
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of savory ground beef, creamy soup, and melty cheese creates a symphony of flavors that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
- Family-Friendly: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will love digging into this warm, cheesy goodness.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize it! Add in your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese to make it your own.
- Perfect for Leftovers: It’s even better the next day! Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner, making meal prep a breeze.
- One-Dish Wonder: Less cleanup means more time with family and friends. Bake it, serve it, and savor it—all from one pan!
Trust me, once you dive into this delicious hamburger potato casserole, it’ll quickly become a staple in your home!
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Hamburger Potato Casserole: 5 Reasons You’ll Crave It
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty hamburger potato casserole that combines ground beef, potatoes, and cheese for a filling meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet.
- Layer half of the potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Add the cooked beef and onion over the potatoes.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk, then pour over the beef.
- Layer the remaining potatoes on top.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil, add cheese, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Notes
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can add vegetables like peas or corn for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: hamburger potato casserole
