Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that will please the entire family, this Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is a must-try. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious casserole right at home!

Ingredients Overview

To make this delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds of ground beef – Provides a rich, meaty base for the casserole.
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced – Adds texture and comfort to the dish with their creamy interior.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle sweetness.
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully to create a creamy, cheesy layer.
• 1 can (10.75 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup – Adds depth and creaminess to the casserole.
• ¾ cup of milk – Thins out the soup for a pourable consistency.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – Provides a hint of garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and color.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Balances the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – Used for browning the beef and onions.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

• Large skillet
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil
• Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare your ingredients. Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes into even slices to ensure they cook evenly. Chop the medium onion finely and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onions become translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole. Season the beef and onion mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and stir well to combine.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Layering

In a medium bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until you have a smooth mixture. This will be the creamy sauce for the casserole. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, start by arranging a layer of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Top with half of the cooked beef and onion mixture. Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef and potatoes, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.

Tips for Browning the Beef Perfectly

To achieve perfectly browned beef, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the ground beef. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this allows the beef to sear rather than steam. Stir occasionally but not too often, allowing the beef to develop a nice caramelized exterior. Drain excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.

Layering the Casserole for Best Results

When layering, be sure to spread the ingredients evenly across the dish. Thinly sliced potatoes are key to ensuring they cook through properly. Press down lightly on each layer to compact the ingredients and allow for even baking. Ending with a cheese layer on top guarantees a deliciously crispy, golden crust.

Baking the Casserole to Perfection

Covering the casserole with foil during the first hour of baking traps steam, which helps the potatoes become tender. Removing the foil for the last 30 minutes allows the cheese to brown and the edges to crisp up. Keep an eye on the casserole during the final bake time to prevent over-browning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Under-slicing the potatoes: Make sure your potato slices are thin and even. Thick slices may not cook through properly.
• Overbaking the cheese: Keep the casserole covered with foil until the final 30 minutes to avoid burning the cheese.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer to ensure a well-flavored casserole throughout.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Garnish your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve it hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing it. Transfer portions into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat single portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, but the oven method will maintain the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free condensed cream of mushroom soup.
• What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
  You can use cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or even a homemade béchamel sauce as a substitute.

conclusion

There you have it—a delicious, comforting Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your next family dinner! This dish is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes like this one!

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