Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

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Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Comforting, Hearty Meal

Looking for a quick, delicious, and hearty meal that’s perfect for the whole family? Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy mushrooms, and tender potatoes into a dish that’s simple to prepare yet irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal to serve at a gathering, this casserole is sure to impress.

This recipe is designed to be both flavorful and easy, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you need a wholesome meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Below, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process to create this hearty casserole, along with helpful tips to make it your own!

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Casserole

There are plenty of reasons why easy hamburger potato casserole has become a household favorite:

  • Simple Ingredients: With everyday ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cream of mushroom soup, this recipe comes together effortlessly. No need for complicated or expensive ingredients!
  • Hearty and Filling: The combination of ground beef and sliced potatoes creates a meal that’s substantial and filling, perfect for feeding a hungry family.
  • One-Dish Meal: Since everything is layered into one casserole dish, cleanup is a breeze. It’s the perfect meal for busy days when you need to get dinner on the table fast.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings, swap out ingredients, or add in your favorite vegetables to personalize the recipe and make it your own.

Now that you know why this casserole is a hit, let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef: This is the base of your casserole. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option or go for fattier beef for a richer flavor.
  • 1 medium onion: Diced to add flavor and sweetness that complements the beef.
  • 3–4 medium potatoes: Thinly sliced, these form the comforting layers of the casserole. Russet potatoes work best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other varieties.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: This creamy soup forms the base of the casserole sauce and adds richness.
  • 1/2 cup milk: To loosen up the soup and make a creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a gooey, melted topping that makes the casserole even more irresistible. You can use other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For added savory depth.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and a vibrant color to the dish.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, helping to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter: Used for greasing the casserole dish (optional but recommended).

Optional Add-ins:

  • Vegetables: You can add sliced carrots, peas, or corn to the casserole for a more balanced meal.
  • Herbs: Fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be sprinkled over the casserole for extra flavor.

How to Make Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the potatoes become tender while the beef mixture cooks perfectly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Cook it along with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the beef mixture and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating the perfect sauce to bind all the ingredients together. You can add extra seasonings to this mixture, such as a pinch of garlic powder or thyme, for more depth.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of olive oil or butter. Start by layering the bottom of the dish with thinly sliced potatoes. These will form the base and help absorb the flavorful juices from the beef and soup.

Next, spread a layer of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the potatoes. Pour some of the cream of mushroom soup mixture over the beef. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of potatoes on top. The top layer of potatoes will absorb the sauce, making the casserole extra flavorful.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50–60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The foil helps the casserole steam and cook evenly, making the potatoes soft and flavorful.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Once the casserole is fully cooked, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cheese adds a rich, gooey finish to the casserole that everyone will love.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the layers time to set and makes it easier to cut into neat servings. Pair your casserole with a side of fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Potato Casserole

  • Layering: Make sure you layer the ingredients evenly to ensure the potatoes cook evenly and the flavors are well-distributed.
  • Potato Thickness: For the best texture, slice the potatoes thinly so they cook properly during the baking process. If the slices are too thick, they may remain undercooked.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby are great alternatives to cheddar.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This is perfect for meal prep or making dinner ahead of time.

Storage and Leftovers

This casserole makes excellent leftovers! Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Conclusion

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a perfect weeknight meal that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, creamy soup, and hearty potatoes, all topped with melty cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that your whole family will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and start layering this delicious casserole for a filling and delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone!

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