Craving a comforting dish that’s both hearty and satisfying? This hamburger potato casserole recipe is the ultimate solution! Combining layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, it can be prepared in advance and baked when you’re ready to eat. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish that will warm your heart and fill your stomach.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g protein. This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one slice of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
7. Spread the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
8. Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef.
9. Add the remaining potatoes on top.
10. Finally, pour the rest of the soup mixture and top with shredded cheese.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free version. Consider using different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
This hamburger potato casserole pairs well with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s covered properly to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the ground beef can make it tough.
– Not seasoning the meat can lead to bland flavors.
– Slicing potatoes too thick can result in uneven cooking.
– Forgetting to cover the casserole can lead to burnt edges.
– Skipping the resting time after baking can make serving messy.
– Not greasing the dish may cause sticking.
– Using low-fat cheese may not yield the best melting results.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mandoline for evenly sliced potatoes.
– Add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition.
– For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños.
– Experiment with different herbs for added flavor.
– Let the casserole cool slightly before cutting for cleaner slices.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce if preferred.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to layer more cheese on top for an extra cheesy casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans and use vegetable broth instead of the soup for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This hamburger potato casserole recipe is a comforting, satisfying dish that brings the whole family together. With layers of flavor and the versatility to adapt to your taste, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your casserole with loved ones and savor every bite!
Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes thinly sliced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef.
- Add the remaining potatoes on top.
- Pour the rest of the soup mixture and top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
