Hamburger And Potato Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that's easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Hamburger and Potato Casserole recipe! This dish brings together the savory goodness of ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich, creamy sauce in a simple, one-pan wonder. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, grab your apron and read on to discover how to make this comforting casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.

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What is a Hamburger and Potato Casserole?

Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a traditional comfort food dish that combines seasoned ground beef (hamburger), sliced or diced potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce. It’s baked to perfection, with the flavors melding together to create a savory, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings. The best part about this casserole? It's incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family's taste preferences.

Ingredients List for Hamburger and Potato Casserole

Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients you’ll need to create a delicious hamburger and potato casserole:

1. Ground beef – 1 pound of lean ground beef is ideal for this recipe. You can opt for a fattier beef, but remember to drain the fat after browning.
2. Russet potatoes – 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly. Russets hold up well during baking and add a creamy texture.
3. Yellow onion – 1 large onion, finely chopped, adds flavor and texture to the casserole.
4. Garlic cloves – 2-3 cloves, minced, for a fragrant and flavorful base.
5. Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup for the creamy element.
6. Milk – 1 cup of milk to help thin the soup mixture.
7. Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, cheesy topping.
8. Butter – 2 tablespoons of butter for sautéing the onions and garlic.
9. Salt and pepper – To taste. Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting as needed.
10. Paprika – 1 teaspoon for a slight smoky flavor.
11. Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon for garnish and a hint of herbal flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this hamburger and potato casserole recipe based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Meat substitutions: If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage would work just as well in this recipe. Each brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.
2. Potato alternatives: While russet potatoes are the classic choice, you can also use Yukon Golds or red potatoes. For a healthier twist, try using sweet potatoes, which add a bit of natural sweetness to the dish.
3. Dairy-free version: If you're lactose intolerant or vegan, swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative, use almond or oat milk, and replace the cream of mushroom soup with a non-dairy cream soup.
4. Add vegetables: You can easily add more veggies to this dish, such as green beans, peas, or corn, for extra nutrients and color.
5. Spice it up: For a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or some diced jalapeños.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect Hamburger and Potato Casserole.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake once all your ingredients are prepared.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and slice the potatoes thinly—about ⅛ inch thick. You can use a mandoline for uniform slices, which will help the potatoes cook evenly. Set them aside in a bowl of water to prevent browning while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth. You can also add additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Then, spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by half of the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers, and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, onions, soup mixture, and cheese.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and make it easier to cut into portions.

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

The cooking process for this casserole can be broken down into a few key steps:

1. Preheat and prepare: Start by preheating the oven to 350°F and preparing your ingredients (peeling and slicing potatoes, browning the beef).
2. Layering: Layer the sliced potatoes, ground beef, sautéed onions, and soup mixture in a casserole dish.
3. Baking: Bake the casserole covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
4. Resting: Let the dish rest before serving to ensure the flavors have a chance to meld and the casserole sets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Slicing potatoes too thick: If your potato slices are too thick, they may not cook through properly, leaving them underdone in the casserole. Aim for slices that are about ⅛ inch thick.
2. Not draining the ground beef: Failing to drain the fat from the cooked ground beef can result in a greasy casserole.
3. Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest before cutting into it ensures the sauce thickens and the layers stay intact.
4. Not seasoning the layers: Be sure to season each layer (potatoes, beef, and sauce) to ensure the entire dish is flavorful.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving Hamburger and Potato Casserole, presentation is key to making it as appetizing as possible. Here are a few tips:

• Portion neatly: Use a sharp knife to cut the casserole into even portions. A spatula works great for serving each slice cleanly.
• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions over the top of the casserole for a pop of color.
• Serve with sides: This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or dinner rolls.

How to Serve Hamburger and Potato Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal in itself, but you can enhance it by serving it with complementary side dishes. Some great serving options include:

• A side of roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the casserole.
• Dinner rolls or crusty bread to help soak up any extra sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger and Potato Casserole

For a rustic, homestyle presentation, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table. If you’re looking to elevate the presentation, try:

• Serving individual portions in small, oven-safe dishes for a more personalized touch.
• Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a quick broil just before serving to give the top a crispy, golden finish.

Hamburger and Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
2. Freeze leftovers: This dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
3. Use a mandoline for slicing: A mandoline slicer will ensure uniform potato slices, which will help the casserole bake evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes in this casserole? A: Yes, frozen hash browns or diced potatoes can be used as a shortcut, but they may not have the same texture as fresh potatoes.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole? A: Absolutely! Vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can be added between the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: How long will the casserole keep in the fridge? A: This casserole will keep for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup? A: If you're not a fan of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead.

Conclusion

Hamburger and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. This recipe is easy to prepare, versatile, and can be tailored to your family's tastes. Whether you're serving it for a cozy dinner at home or bringing it to a potluck, it's sure to be a hit. Follow these simple steps, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of this classic casserole! Happy cooking!

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