Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese into a hearty, satisfying casserole that’s easy to make and loved by all ages. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or when you need a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4-5 medium potatoes)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef: Stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes using a knife or mandolin slicer. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the layer of potatoes. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour half of this mixture over the ground beef. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Add the Remaining Potatoes: Layer the remaining sliced potatoes over the cheese. Pour the rest of the soup mixture over the top layer of potatoes, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Add Sour Cream: Once the casserole is finished baking, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Spoon dollops of sour cream over the top, and gently spread it to cover.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this cheesy, hearty casserole.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandolin slicer to ensure the potatoes are evenly sliced, which helps them cook uniformly.
- Cream of Mushroom Substitute: If you prefer, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for a slightly different flavor.
- Ground Beef Alternatives: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
Variations
- Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the ground beef mixture for a delicious bacon cheeseburger twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Add 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables or sliced bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and color.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the ground beef mixture for some heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food that brings together tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s an easy and delicious dish that will satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or making it ahead for a busy day, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic meal!
