There’s something comforting about a warm, hearty casserole straight out of the oven, especially one that’s as easy and delicious as this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love or preparing a dish for a potluck, this recipe fits the bill. It’s a simple yet satisfying blend of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand!
Let’s dive into how you can whip up this tasty casserole with minimal effort, all while maximizing flavor and appeal. Get ready to add this to your regular dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This casserole recipe keeps things simple without skimping on flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Feel free to add your own spin by incorporating additional vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s best to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Thinly slice your potatoes—it’s important to slice them evenly to ensure they cook through properly. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out your seasonings.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the beef is almost done, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them together for another 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried parsley, then set it aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together the can of cream of mushroom soup and the cup of milk. Whisk until smooth and fully combined. This mixture will create a creamy texture that binds the casserole together. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery.
4. Layer the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the butter. Now, it’s time to start layering. Begin by spreading a single layer of the sliced potatoes across the bottom of the dish. Add a portion of the browned hamburger mixture on top of the potatoes. Pour a portion of the creamy soup mixture over the beef and potatoes. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of potatoes on top.
5. Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
After an hour, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
6. Let It Rest and Serve
Once the casserole is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Now, dig in! Serve your Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Why This Casserole is a Winner
1. Versatile and Customizable
This casserole recipe is highly adaptable. You can add more vegetables to the layers, such as carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach. You could also switch out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, or try adding a layer of crispy bacon on top for a smoky flavor boost.
2. Family-Friendly
It’s tough to find a meal that everyone in the family loves, but this one has universal appeal. The classic combination of potatoes, ground beef, and cheese is a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to make in large quantities, so it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for leftovers the next day.
3. Budget-Friendly
This casserole uses simple ingredients that are affordable and often already in your pantry or fridge. Potatoes and ground beef are inexpensive staples, and a can of cream soup makes it creamy without requiring a ton of additional ingredients. It’s a great way to stretch your grocery budget while still making a delicious, hearty meal.
4. Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly
One of the best things about casseroles is how well they hold up for meal prep. You can assemble this dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. If you’re planning ahead, you can also freeze the unbaked casserole. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Tips for Success
- Even Slices: To ensure your potatoes cook evenly, try to slice them as thinly and uniformly as possible. A mandoline slicer is a great tool for this.
- Season Generously: Since potatoes absorb a lot of flavor, be sure to season each layer of the casserole with salt and pepper.
- Check for Doneness: Before removing the casserole from the oven, use a fork to check if the potatoes are tender. If they’re still firm, cover the dish again and continue baking for another 10 minutes.
- Let it Set: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving so that the layers hold together when you slice into it.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a portion on a plate and microwave until heated through. If you’d rather reheat the entire dish, cover it with foil and place it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed.
If freezing, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for easy grab-and-go lunches. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat as needed.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well in this casserole.
What can I serve with hamburger potato casserole?
A fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or a side of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness to the casserole, and they’ll cook just as well as white potatoes.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know the casserole is finished when the potatoes are fork-tender, and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Can I add other types of cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use a gluten-free cream soup or make your own with gluten-free ingredients.
Conclusion
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients, rich flavor, and endless customization options, it’s a meal you can count on for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Enjoy the warm, comforting layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese, and feel free to put your own twist on it to make it your own!