If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, hearty meal that’s both a crowd-pleaser and incredibly simple to make, let me introduce you to the Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe. This dish wraps tender slices of potatoes in a luscious, creamy mushroom sauce loaded with savory ground beef and topped off with melty cheddar cheese. With every forkful, you get a perfect balance of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward with ingredients that you likely have on hand or can find easily in any grocery store. Each component plays a crucial role, from the earthy cream of mushroom soup that gives creaminess to the casserole, to the sharpness of cheddar cheese that crowns the dish with flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean for less grease and cleaner flavor.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Adds depth and creamy texture.
- ¾ cup milk: Helps make the sauce rich and spreadable.
- ½ cup chopped onion: Gives the casserole a flavor boost.
- Salt and pepper: Just enough to enhance every layer.
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes: A mandoline slicer helps speed things up.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds the perfect cheesy top layer.
How to Make Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As the beef cooks, add the chopped onions to the pan so they soften and release their natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the savory meat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease for a cleaner taste and set the mixture aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), stir together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Season lightly with salt and pepper—remember, the cheese will add another touch of saltiness later, so go easy now. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to mingle the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Meat
Grab a baking dish and begin layering thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom. Next, spoon half of the beef and onion mixture over the potato layer, then pour half of the creamy mushroom sauce on top. Repeat these layers once more, making sure every slice of potato is nestled in that flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Top the casserole generously with shredded cheddar cheese—it’s the crowning glory that melts and browns beautifully in the oven. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to let the cheese turn golden and bubbly. Then, you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh note that balances the richness of the casserole. If you like a little heat, a few red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika can add an exciting twist.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands tall on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The freshness and crunch provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy, cheesy potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish to keep things casual and comforting. If you want to impress guests, portion servings onto warm plates and garnish thoughtfully with herbs and a little extra cheddar. You can also try layering leftovers in mini ramekins for cute individual portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, too! Wrap it securely in foil and plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Microwaving works in a pinch but doesn’t preserve the cheesy topping’s texture as well.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! Cheddar is classic here, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda to give the dish a unique flavor twist.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients, but peeling them creates a smoother, creamier casserole if that’s your preference.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. The cream of mushroom soup adds plenty of umami, so it will still taste fantastic.
What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work great because they hold their shape well while becoming tender. Russets can also be used but might break down more in the baking process.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Check that your cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free or use a homemade version. Additionally, confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free to keep this dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those magic dishes that feels both nostalgic and simple enough for any weeknight. It’s full of cozy flavors and hearty textures that bring people together and satisfy hungry appetites. Don’t hesitate to try it—it might just become your new favorite go-to comfort food!
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Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining lean ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, sautéed onions, thinly sliced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s simple to prepare and packs rich flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef (lean)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (using a mandoline slicer helps)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy and Canned Goods
Produce
Seasonings
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion finely.
- Cook the ground beef and onion: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: In a baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the soup-milk mixture over the beef. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and soup mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add the cheese topping: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the dish set.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef reduces excess grease and makes the casserole less oily.
- A mandoline slicer ensures uniform potato slices for even cooking.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup according to preference.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly to cook through thoroughly within the baking time.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika to the meat mixture.
