Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a quick and hearty dinner recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings? This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a simple, delicious, and satisfying dish that everyone will love. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with gooey melted cheese, this casserole brings together all the comforting flavors you crave in one easy-to-make meal.

Why This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is ideal for those who love classic comfort food with minimal preparation. It’s versatile enough to serve for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or even a holiday side dish. Best of all, it requires only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Ready in under two hours with very little hands-on time, it’s perfect for those hectic days when you need something quick and comforting.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides the rich, savory base for the dish.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
• ¾ cup milk: Helps to create a creamy sauce.
• ½ cup chopped onion: Adds a slight sweetness and a bit of crunch.
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes: The hearty base that holds everything together.
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese: Melts on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepping Your Ingredients: How to Slice Potatoes and Prepare the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Thin slices ensure even cooking and help the potatoes become tender and flavorful during baking.

Next, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole. Set the cooked beef aside.

2. Creating the Soup Mixture: Combining the Cream of Mushroom Soup, Milk, and Seasonings

In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well-blended. This creamy base is what will make the casserole rich and flavorful.

3. Layering the Casserole: The Right Way to Arrange Your Ingredients

In a 2-quart baking dish, start by creating a layer of thinly sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of the soup mixture, and then a layer of browned ground beef. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, making sure the top layer is the soup mixture to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.

Baking the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Baking covered ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the soup and beef.

Adding the Final Touch

Once the potatoes are tender, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This final step adds a deliciously cheesy finish that takes the casserole to the next level.

Tips for Success

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Not slicing the potatoes thinly enough: Thick potato slices may take longer to cook, which can result in an unevenly cooked casserole.
• Skipping the browning of the ground beef: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor and ensures a perfect texture.
• Overloading on cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can make the casserole greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for the best results.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Swap the Cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional content.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. For a more filling meal, serve it with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra sauce.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating the Casserole

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, though the oven method retains a better texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
  Yes, you can use any variety of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or Russet. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
• What Other Cheeses Work Well in This Recipe?
  Cheeses like Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or even a spicy Pepper Jack can be used to change up the flavor.
• Can This Casserole Be Made Ahead of Time?
  Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the same baking instructions.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a simple, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s the perfect go-to dish for any night of the week. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to make it your own with a variety of substitutions and additions.

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