Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy soup, and tender potatoes. This classic casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite among busy families. It provides a complete meal in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or taking it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several reasons why Hamburger Potato Casserole stands out as an excellent choice for your next meal. First, it combines familiar ingredients that most people love, such as ground beef and potatoes, making it a crowd-pleaser. Second, the casserole is simple to prepare, requiring minimal prep time and only a few steps. This is perfect for those who might not feel like spending hours in the kitchen. Moreover, it’s a delightful way to use up leftovers or pantry staples, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Finally, once you pull this casserole out of the oven, you can expect delicious, comforting flavors that are perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole
Making Hamburger Potato Casserole is straightforward and requires just a few key ingredients. Follow these simple steps to whip up this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 6 small Potatoes, peeled and thin sliced
- 2 lb Ground Beef, browned and drained
- 21 oz Cream of Mushroom Condensed Soup (2 cans)
- 1 1/2 cup Milk
- 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes.
- Pour half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and ground beef mixture.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole
Serving Hamburger Potato Casserole is as simple as cutting it into square portions and placing them on plates. It pairs well with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also want to serve it with crusty bread or rolls to soak up any creamy sauce left on the plate. This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can add any condiments you like, such as ketchup or hot sauce, for an extra kick.
How to Store Hamburger Potato Casserole
If you have any leftovers, storing Hamburger Potato Casserole is very easy. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re looking to keep it for a longer time, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through.
Tips to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of different cheeses for a unique flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious version, consider adding veggies such as corn, peas, or bell peppers to the beef mixture. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add color and nutrition to the dish.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add diced jalapeños or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the meat mixture.
- Mix in Seasonings: Personalize the casserole by incorporating your favorite seasonings or herbs, such as Italian seasoning, thyme, or paprika, for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations
- Cheesy Broccoli Hamburger Potato Casserole: Layer steamed broccoli in between the potato layers for a delicious veggie addition.
- Mexican Style: Add taco seasoning to the ground beef and use salsa instead of the cream of mushroom soup. Top with shredded jack cheese and serve with sour cream.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a mixture of beans or lentils and use vegetable soup instead of cream of mushroom. This creates a meatless version while still being hearty.
- Breakfast Casserole: Mix in cooked breakfast sausage and some scrambled eggs for a breakfast twist on this classic.
FAQs
1. Can I make Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it and cover it, then refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a bit more time to ensure it’s heated through.
2. Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! Just be sure to let it cool completely, cover it securely, and freeze. It can be stored for up to three months in the freezer.
3. What should I serve with Hamburger Potato Casserole?
This dish pairs well with green salads, steamed vegetables, or even some garlic bread for dipping up the creamy sauce.
4. How long does the casserole take to cook?
Total cooking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes: 1 hour covered with foil, plus an additional 15 minutes uncovered to melt the cheese.
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that promises great flavor without the fuss. With its easy preparation and the ability to customize, it’s a meal that can fit any occasion while satisfying everyone’s taste buds. Enjoy cooking!
Hamburger Potato Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Skillet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 cups potatoes thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until combined.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, then pour half of the soup mixture on top. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and another 1/2 cup of cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil, top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
