Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

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This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Packed with layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s a delicious and easy recipe everyone will love. Plus, you can make it in advance and simply reheat it for an even easier dinner solution.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef, crumbled
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 to 4 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch slices
  • 8 ounces (or more) cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 can cheddar cheese soup mix
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk (or whole milk)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, cook the diced onion and crumbled ground beef over medium heat until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set aside.

Step 3: Slice the Potatoes

Peel and slice the potatoes to about 1/4-inch thickness. Try to keep them evenly sliced so they cook uniformly.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

  1. First Layer: Place a single layer of potato slices at the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper.
  2. Meat and Cheese: Spread about one-third of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese on top.
  3. Repeat Layers: Continue layering the potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese two more times, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese soup mix, evaporated milk, and 1/2 cup of milk. Add extra salt and pepper if desired. Whisk together until smooth.

Step 6: Pour the Sauce Over the Casserole

Pour the cheese sauce mixture evenly over the top of the layered potatoes and beef. This will seep down through the layers and create a creamy, cheesy texture throughout the casserole.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour.

Step 8: Uncover and Bake for a Golden Topping

After an hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping. Check that the potatoes are tender by inserting a fork into the casserole. If the potatoes are thicker, you may need to bake a bit longer.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this casserole as a main dish with a side salad or steamed veggies, or serve it as a hearty side at brunch or dinner gatherings.

Tips for Success

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the entire casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake as directed.
  • Customize Your Cheese: Swap cheddar for a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
  • Add Extra Veggies: For a boost of flavor and nutrition, add a layer of thinly sliced bell peppers or mushrooms with the potatoes.

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of cheesy potatoes and savory beef for a delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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