Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole: A Comforting, Easy-to-Make Family Favorite

When it comes to comforting and satisfying meals, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty casserole. The Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole is the epitome of a cozy family dinner, combining tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and soft potatoes baked to perfection. This casserole is a favorite among busy families, thanks to its simplicity and rich flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love Hamburger and Potato Casserole

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

The Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make. With just a few key ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a fulfilling meal that requires little attention while it bakes. The simplicity of this dish makes it ideal for those hectic evenings when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Comforting, Filling, and Budget-Friendly

This casserole brings together a wonderful combination of flavors and textures: savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender slices of potato all baked under a gooey layer of melted cheese. It’s filling and hearty, making it the perfect dish for feeding a hungry family without breaking the bank. Using pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and cheddar cheese, this meal is both affordable and satisfying.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Hamburger and Potato Casserole is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your tastes. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist on this classic casserole. The recipe also allows for the substitution of other pantry items, making it perfect for using what you have on hand.

Ingredients for Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole

This dish comes together with a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef – Lean or extra-lean ground beef is preferred to reduce excess grease.
• 4-5 medium-sized potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe.
• 1 small onion, chopped – Adds flavor and texture to the casserole.
• 1 can mushroom soup – This serves as the base for the creamy sauce. You can substitute with chicken or celery soup if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup milk – To thin out the soup and make the sauce creamy.
• 1-2 cups grated cheddar cheese – For the cheesy top layer that adds flavor and texture.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning the dish.
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs – For extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hamburger and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and at the right temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender by the time the casserole is finished baking. Set the slices aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large frying pan, heat the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks, making sure it browns evenly. Once the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat from the meat, and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices like garlic powder or paprika if desired.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, combine the can of mushroom soup with the milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This will create a creamy sauce that helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Next, add half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes, followed by half of the creamy mushroom soup mixture. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and soup.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Top the casserole with the grated cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly over the top. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly crust during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour. After an hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will give it time to set and make it easier to slice. For an added touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Hamburger and Potato Casserole

• Uniform Potato Slices: Make sure the potato slices are consistent in size to ensure they cook evenly. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve even slices and save time.
• Add Extra Vegetables: If you want to increase the nutrition of the dish, add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the ground beef mixture.
• Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier version of this casserole.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance by assembling it the night before and refrigerating it. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven.

Why This Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole Will Become a Family Favorite

This casserole is a perfect example of how a few basic ingredients can come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Its comforting flavors, easy preparation, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. The Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole offers a classic combination of hearty ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender potatoes, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages and is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.