Hamburger Potato Casserole

Name: Hamburger Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Ground Beef: 1 1/2 pounds; Russet Potatoes (peeled, thinly sliced): 4 large; Onion (chopped): 1 medium; Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups; Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.75 oz); Milk: 3/4 cup; Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon; Paprika: 1 teaspoon; Salt and Pepper: to taste; Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons; Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Isabella

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Are you in the mood for a hearty and delicious meal that’s both comforting and easy to make? Look no further than the classic Hamburger Potato Casserole. This dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef and potatoes with the rich, cheesy goodness of cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a satisfying home-cooked dish.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds of ground beef

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

1 can (10.75 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup

3/4 cup of milk

1 teaspoon of garlic powder

1 teaspoon of paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons of olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions:

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a bit of the olive oil, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes for easy serving.

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.

Season the Beef Mixture: Add a personal touch by seasoning the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This blend of spices adds depth and warmth to the flavor.

Layering the Casserole: In your prepared baking dish, spread half of the beef mixture. Then, layer half of the potato slices over the beef, followed by a sprinkle of one cup of cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining beef and potatoes.

Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together the condensed soup and milk until well combined. This creamy mixture acts as a binder, bringing all the flavors together.

Bake the Casserole: Pour the soup mixture over the potato layers. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Add the Final Touches: Remove the foil, add the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 20-30 minutes. This final step ensures a bubbly, golden-brown cheese topping.

Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Versatility: This casserole is perfect for customizing to your taste. Try adding green peppers, mushrooms, or even a layer of crispy bacon for extra flavor.

Family Friendly: It’s a hit with both adults and kids, making it a perfect meal for family dinners.

Make-Ahead: Prepare it in advance and simply reheat for a stress-free meal.

Serving Tips:

Let it Rest: After removing your casserole from the oven, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut into portions.

Portion Sizes: Serve the casserole in moderate-sized portions as it is quite filling. It pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Garnishing for Extra Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh element to the rich and hearty dish.

Temperature: Serve the casserole warm. It helps to enhance the flavors and ensures the cheese is deliciously gooey.

Beverage Pairing: A glass of red wine or a cold beer can complement the flavors of the casserole, while a refreshing iced tea or lemonade is great for a non-alcoholic option.

Storage Tips:

Cooling Down: Before storing, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can make the leftovers soggy.

Refrigerating Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the casserole can last for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is sealed well to avoid absorbing other flavors from the fridge.

Freezing for Later: This casserole freezes well. Divide it into portion sizes, wrap in aluminum foil or freezer-safe wrap, and then place in a freezer bag. Label with the date, and it can be stored for up to 2 months. This method is great for meal planning and ensures you have a delicious meal ready on busy days.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for quick serving, or in the oven for a more evenly warmed dish. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Avoiding Sogginess: When reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep the moisture in and prevent the top from burning or drying out.

Related Recipes:

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, I bring it to room temperature and follow the baking instructions.

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

I prefer using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes because they hold their shape well and have a great texture when baked.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream soup and substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free crackers or omit the topping altogether.

Can I add cheese between the layers?

Absolutely! Adding a sprinkle of cheese between the layers makes the dish even creamier and cheesier.

Conclusion:

Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together hearty, simple ingredients in a crowd-pleasing dish. I love how easy it is to customize and prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Try it out, and it might just become one of your favorite casseroles too!