Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This casserole combines layers of seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a potluck, this dish is sure to please.
What Is Hamburger Potato Casserole?
This dish is a layered casserole made with cooked ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce. It’s baked until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly, making for a delicious comfort food meal.
Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole
To make this casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or any cream-based soup)
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
These ingredients can be adjusted based on personal preferences, and you can easily add more vegetables or switch up the type of cheese.
Health Benefits of This Dish
While this is a comfort food dish, there are some health benefits to the ingredients used:
- Protein from the beef: Ground beef is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins from potatoes: Potatoes are rich in vitamins such as vitamin C and potassium.
- Calcium from cheese: The cheese provides calcium, which is important for strong bones.
For more hearty casserole recipes, try out this Healthy Chicken Casserole for a lighter option.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and filling casserole:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper, then drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
While the beef is cooking, peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Make sure they’re sliced evenly so they cook through at the same rate.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Spread half of the ground beef mixture on top, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
For more details on making casseroles, check out this Casserole Cooking Guide.
Variations of Hamburger Potato Casserole
Here are a few ways you can customize the recipe:
- Add Vegetables: Layer vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different taste and texture.
- Change the Cheese: Try using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor.
Best Occasions to Serve This Casserole
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a versatile dish that works well for:
- Family dinners: It’s an easy, one-dish meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Potlucks: The hearty ingredients make it a great option to bring to gatherings.
- Meal prep: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick dinners throughout the week.
Common Mistakes When Making This Dish
To get the best results, avoid these common mistakes:
- Not slicing the potatoes evenly: Uneven slices can result in some potatoes being undercooked.
- Overcrowding the dish: If the casserole dish is too small, it won’t cook evenly. Use a larger dish to ensure the layers bake properly.
- Skipping the seasoning: Be sure to season each layer to ensure the entire dish is flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Potato Casserole
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
2. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese, this comforting casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
For another comforting dish, try this Classic Cottage Pie recipe for a flavorful and hearty meal.