Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef with tender potatoes, creamy soup, and melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and potlucks. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Hamburger and Potato Casserole. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Hamburger and Potato Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 to 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom condensed soup or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Paprika or dried herbs (optional for seasoning)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Slice Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer Potatoes: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes.
- Add Beef Mixture: Spread half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and ground beef mixture.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom (or cream of chicken) soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir until well blended.
- Pour Sauce: Pour the sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and ground beef.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional Seasoning: Sprinkle with paprika or dried herbs for added flavor and garnish.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve: Slice the Hamburger and Potato Casserole into portions and serve warm. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dish!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Potatoes: Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Ground Beef: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add layers of vegetables such as sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a different cheese flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q4: What can I serve with Hamburger and Potato Casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or dinner rolls.
Q5: Can I use fresh herbs?
A: Yes, fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be used for added flavor. Add them to the sauce mixture or sprinkle on top before baking.
Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce topped with melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Serve this tasty casserole with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty dinner!
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner, a potluck dish, or a meal to impress your family, this Hamburger and Potato Casserole is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
