Easy 5-ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole Recipe

Hamburger and potato casserole is a simple, comforting dish that comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you're a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just in the mood for a hearty, budget-friendly meal, this recipe has you covered. It's the perfect combination of savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese—perfect for a cozy family dinner. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about this easy 5-ingredient casserole recipe, from ingredient substitutions to step-by-step cooking instructions, and even some tips for serving and presentation. Ready to make this delicious meal? Keep reading!

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What is a Hamburger & Potato Casserole?

A hamburger and potato casserole is a baked dish that combines ground beef (hamburger), thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce, typically with a topping of melted cheese. It’s a classic comfort food that’s both filling and easy to make. The casserole has multiple layers, with the potatoes softening and absorbing flavors as they bake, while the beef provides hearty protein. The best part? You can prepare this dish using just five basic ingredients.

Ingredients List for Hamburger & Potato Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

1. 1 lb ground beef – This is the primary protein in the dish, providing flavor and heartiness. You can use lean or regular ground beef based on your preference.
2. 4 large potatoes – Thinly sliced, the potatoes act as the bulk of the casserole, providing a soft and comforting base. Any kind of potato works, but russet or Yukon Gold are great options.
3. 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – This ingredient adds creaminess and depth of flavor, helping to bind the casserole together. You can also use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer.
4. ½ cup milk – Helps to thin out the condensed soup, making it easier to pour over the layers and keep the casserole moist.
5. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For that cheesy, melted goodness on top! You can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you want.

Additional Ingredients (Optional):

• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhance the flavor of your casserole with a dash of seasoning.
• Onion or garlic powder for extra flavor (optional).
• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this casserole is its versatility. If you don’t have one of the ingredients or want to try a variation, here are some easy substitutions:

1. Ground beef alternatives – You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
2. Different potatoes – While this recipe calls for large potatoes, you can use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor or red potatoes for a waxier texture.
3. Condensed soup options – Feel free to use condensed cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even cream of onion soup in place of cream of mushroom.
4. Cheese swaps – Any meltable cheese works well in this recipe. Consider trying a blend of cheddar and mozzarella or even a sharp white cheddar for more intense flavor.
5. Add vegetables – You can also sneak in some veggies like sliced carrots, peas, or spinach to make the casserole more nutritious without changing its core flavors.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to make the Hamburger & Potato Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the potatoes – Wash and peel the potatoes, then thinly slice them. The thinner the slices, the faster they will cook, and the creamier they’ll become in the casserole.
3. Cook the ground beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease and season the beef with salt and pepper.
4. Mix the soup and milk – In a bowl, whisk together the can of condensed cream of mushroom soup with the ½ cup of milk until smooth. This mixture will form the creamy sauce for the casserole.
5. Layer the casserole – In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start by laying down a layer of thinly sliced potatoes. Spread a portion of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, then pour some of the soup and milk mixture over the top. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of potatoes.
6. Top with cheese – Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake the casserole – Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Let it rest – Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut into and serve.

How to Cook Hamburger & Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare all ingredients beforehand – Thinly slice your potatoes and cook your beef. This ensures smooth assembly and saves time in the long run.
2. Layer your ingredients evenly – Spread the potatoes and beef evenly throughout the casserole dish for consistent cooking. Make sure the top layer is mostly potatoes so the cheese doesn’t sink into the layers.
3. Bake covered, then uncovered – Baking the casserole covered with foil ensures the potatoes cook through evenly without drying out. Removing the foil in the last 15-20 minutes allows the cheese to brown and crisp up for a perfect topping.
4. Test for doneness – To make sure your casserole is fully cooked, insert a fork into the middle to check if the potatoes are tender. If they’re still firm, bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not slicing the potatoes thinly enough – Thick potato slices can take much longer to cook and may end up undercooked. Aim for slices about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick.
2. Forgetting to drain the beef – Excess grease can make the casserole too oily. Always drain the cooked beef before adding it to the casserole.
3. Using too much cheese – While cheese is delicious, adding too much can make the casserole overly greasy and heavy. Stick to about 1 cup for the perfect balance.
4. Not allowing the casserole to rest – Cutting into the casserole right away can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Want to take your hamburger and potato casserole to the next level? Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

1. Top with fresh herbs – A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or even green onions adds a fresh pop of color and flavor to the casserole.
2. Serve with a side salad – A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the casserole.
3. Add a side of garlic bread – For a complete comfort meal, serve this casserole alongside warm, buttery garlic bread.

How to Serve Hamburger & Potato Casserole

This casserole is a hearty, filling dish that can easily stand on its own. However, pairing it with some lighter sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad helps round out the meal.

To serve, use a large spatula to cut and lift out servings. The layers of beef, potatoes, and cheese will hold together nicely if you’ve allowed the casserole to rest.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger & Potato Casserole

To elevate the presentation, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins. This makes for a more formal and aesthetically pleasing serving style, especially for guests. Garnishing with fresh parsley or a drizzle of sour cream adds a gourmet touch.

Hamburger & Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make it ahead – You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
2. Freeze for later – This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
3. Use a mandoline – To get perfectly thin and even potato slices, consider using a mandoline slicer.
4. Boost flavor with spices – Feel free to add extra seasoning like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of paprika for added depth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes! If you have leftover baked or boiled potatoes, you can use them in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the casserole may bake more quickly.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use a gluten-free condensed soup (many brands offer this option), and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Definitely. Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or even spinach can add nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm up the entire dish in the oven.

Conclusion

This easy 5-ingredient hamburger and potato casserole is the perfect dish for when you want something comforting, delicious, and simple to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Plus, with options for substitutions and add-ins, you can make it your own. Give it a try, and enjoy a slice of home-cooked comfort today!

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