Hamburger Potato Casserole: The Comfort Classic Your Family Craves
Introduction
Few dishes scream “comfort food” like a warm, cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. It’s a classic one-dish meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy mushroom sauce—all baked until bubbly and golden. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty Sunday dinner.
Why I Love This Recipe
This casserole delivers layers of flavor and texture with minimal effort. It’s also endlessly customizable—you can make it ahead, freeze it, or swap in veggies and seasonings based on what you have. Plus, it’s kid-approved and makes enough to feed a hungry crowd.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Swaps and Notes
- Cheese: Swap cheddar for a blend with Monterey Jack or Colby for added flavor.
- Soup: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery if you’re out of mushroom.
- Potatoes: Yukon Golds can be used in place of russet for a creamier texture.
- Add-ins: Layer in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of the olive oil.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the Meat:
Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine well.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Spread half the seasoned beef mixture evenly in the baking dish. Add a layer of half the potato slices, then top with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining beef and potatoes.
5. Add Sauce:
Whisk the cream of mushroom soup and milk together in a bowl until smooth. Pour evenly over the casserole layers, letting it seep through.
6. Bake Covered:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour.
7. Add Final Cheese Layer:
Uncover and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake for another 20–30 minutes until bubbly and potatoes are tender.
8. Rest & Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Tips for Success
- Thin Slices: Use a mandoline or food processor for evenly thin potato slices that cook faster.
- Cover Tightly: Keeps the moisture in and ensures the potatoes cook through.
- Check Doneness: Pierce a potato slice with a knife—if it slides in easily, it’s ready.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair this comforting bake with:
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip as a snacky starter
- This Dorito Casserole for a fun twist on Tex-Mex
- These Easy Turkey Wings for a Sunday dinner companion
Add a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to round out the meal.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F or microwave individual portions until hot.
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Final Thoughts
Hamburger Potato Casserole is one of those classic comfort meals that’s as satisfying as it is simple. With its hearty layers, melty cheese, and creamy sauce, it’s destined to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Give it a try and share your twist! Tag @ChefManiac or leave a comment to let us know how it turned out. Hungry for more? Follow along for comfort food classics, one-dish wonders, and hearty meals to feed your crew.
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