Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe

The aroma of a bubbling casserole straight from the oven is pure comfort food nostalgia. For me, Hamburger Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a dish that instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners. Growing up, this casserole was a regular on our weeknight menu, and it was always met with enthusiastic cheers. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a blanket of melted cheese. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make – a true trifecta for busy weeknights. Even now, as an adult, whenever I crave a taste of home or need a fuss-free dish that everyone will love, Hamburger Potato Casserole is my go-to. My own family devours it with the same gusto I did as a child, making it a cherished recipe that spans generations. If you’re looking for a dish that’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and simple to prepare, then you’ve absolutely found the right recipe. Let’s dive into making this classic Hamburger Potato Casserole that will warm your kitchen and your hearts!

Ingredients: The Hearty Components of Your Hamburger Potato Casserole

Creating a truly delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole hinges on selecting the right ingredients and understanding how they contribute to the final dish. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this casserole so irresistible. Let’s explore each ingredient in detail:

• Ground Beef: 1 pound (450 grams). Ground beef is the star protein of this casserole, providing a rich, savory base. Opt for lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to minimize excess grease while still retaining flavor. For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken, though the flavor profile will subtly change. The quality of your ground beef directly impacts the overall taste of the casserole, so choose a reputable brand if possible.
• Potatoes: 2 pounds (900 grams), peeled and thinly sliced. Potatoes are the backbone of this casserole, offering a creamy, comforting texture and a mild, earthy flavor that complements the ground beef perfectly. Russet potatoes are a classic choice due to their high starch content, which makes them wonderfully fluffy when baked. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent option, offering a slightly buttery flavor and a creamier texture. Ensure your potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick) to ensure they cook through properly and become tender in the casserole. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving uniform slices, but a sharp knife and steady hand will also work.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Onion is an aromatic powerhouse that adds depth and complexity to the savory base of the casserole. Yellow or white onions are suitable choices, providing a balanced flavor that isn’t overpowering. Chopping the onion finely ensures it cooks evenly and blends seamlessly into the ground beef mixture. Sautéing the onion with the ground beef is crucial for mellowing its raw bite and enhancing its sweetness.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.5 ounce) can. Cream of mushroom soup is a pantry staple that serves as a creamy, flavorful binder for the casserole. It adds moisture, richness, and a subtle umami depth that ties all the components together. For variations, you can experiment with other “cream of” soups like cream of celery, cream of chicken, or cream of onion, each offering a slightly different flavor profile. For a richer flavor, consider using a “family size” or two smaller cans if you prefer a very creamy casserole.
• Milk: ½ cup (120 ml). Milk is added to the cream of mushroom soup to thin it out slightly and create a smoother, more pourable sauce that evenly coats the potatoes and ground beef. Whole milk will result in the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but 2% or even skim milk can be used for a lighter option. You can also use evaporated milk for a slightly richer and tangier flavor.
• Shredded Cheese: 2 cups (approximately 200 grams). Cheese is the crowning glory of Hamburger Potato Casserole, providing a melted, gooey, and flavorful topping that everyone loves. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, offering a sharp and tangy flavor that complements the savory ingredients beautifully. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella are also excellent options. For a sharper flavor, use sharp cheddar; for a milder flavor, use mild cheddar or Monterey Jack. Shredded cheese melts more evenly than block cheese, ensuring a perfectly cheesy topping.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Garlic powder adds a subtle but essential savory depth to the casserole. It enhances the flavor of the ground beef and complements the creamy potatoes. If you prefer fresh garlic, you can substitute 2-3 cloves of minced garlic, sautéed with the onion and ground beef.
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon. Onion powder works in synergy with garlic powder and fresh onion to amplify the savory and aromatic notes of the casserole. It provides a concentrated onion flavor that blends seamlessly into the dish.
• Dried Parsley: 1 teaspoon (optional, for garnish). Dried parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal to the finished casserole. It’s primarily for garnish and aesthetic purposes, but it also provides a subtle herbaceous note. Fresh parsley, chopped, can also be used as a garnish.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors in the casserole. Season generously at each stage of cooking – when browning the ground beef, mixing the sauce, and before baking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to ensure the casserole is well-seasoned to your preference.

By carefully assembling these ingredients, you are setting the stage for a truly comforting and flavorful Hamburger Potato Casserole. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese is a classic for a reason – it’s simply delicious!

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hamburger Potato Casserole

Creating a delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process, ensuring a comforting and satisfying dish every time:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes serving and cleanup easier.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. Browning the ground beef develops its flavor and creates those delicious savory bits that are characteristic of a good casserole.
3. Drain Excess Grease: Once the ground beef is browned, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This step is important, especially if you are using ground beef with a higher fat content, as it prevents the casserole from becoming greasy.
4. Sauté Onion and Season Beef: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step mellows the onion’s raw flavor and adds sweetness to the beef mixture. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Seasoning at this stage layers the flavors and ensures the ground beef base is well-seasoned. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
5. Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creates the creamy sauce that will bind the casserole and add moisture and flavor.
6. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom. Arrange them in an even layer, slightly overlapping if necessary. Pour half of the cream sauce evenly over the potatoes. Next, spread the seasoned ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the sauce. Top with the remaining potato slices, again arranging them in an even layer. Pour the remaining cream sauce over the top layer of potatoes, ensuring it coats them evenly.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Covering the casserole with foil during the initial baking period helps the potatoes steam and become tender without the top browning too quickly.
8. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Baking uncovered allows the cheese to melt beautifully and develop a golden-brown crust.
9. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with dried parsley (if using) for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy!

Following these simple steps will lead you to a perfectly baked Hamburger Potato Casserole with tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and a gooey, cheesy topping. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Nutrition Facts: Understanding the Nutritional Profile

Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish, and understanding its nutritional profile can help you enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, types of ground beef used, and serving sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (about 1/6 to 1/8 of the 9×13 inch casserole)

Approximate Nutritional Information per Serving:

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Total Fat: 15-20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7-10 grams
• Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
• Sodium: 500-700 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugars: 4-6 grams
• Protein: 15-20 grams

Key Nutritional Highlights:

• Protein-Rich: Hamburger Potato Casserole is a good source of protein, primarily from the ground beef and cheese, which is essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Carbohydrate Source: Potatoes provide carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy. They also contribute dietary fiber.
• Fat Content: The fat content comes from ground beef, cheese, and cream of mushroom soup. Choosing leaner ground beef and reduced-fat cheese and soup can help lower the fat content.
• Sodium: Cream of mushroom soup and cheese can contribute to the sodium content. Opting for lower-sodium versions of these ingredients can help reduce sodium levels.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C, while beef and dairy contribute iron, B vitamins, and calcium.

Important Considerations for Healthier Options:

• Lean Ground Beef: Using extra lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner) significantly reduces the fat content.
• Reduced-Fat Cheese and Soup: Opt for reduced-fat shredded cheese and “light” or “reduced sodium” cream of mushroom soup to lower fat and sodium.
• Increase Vegetables: Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the ground beef mixture to boost nutrient content and fiber.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying a moderate serving size helps manage calorie and fat intake.

While Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish, being aware of its nutritional content allows you to make informed choices and enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced eating plan.

Preparation Time: Planning Your Casserole Cooking

Making Hamburger Potato Casserole is relatively quick and easy, especially for a weeknight meal. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate preparation time involved:

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 45 minutes

Active Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

• Prepping Ingredients (chopping onion, slicing potatoes): 15-20 minutes
• Browning Ground Beef and Sautéing Onion: 10-15 minutes
• Mixing Cream Sauce: 5 minutes
• Assembling Casserole: 5-10 minutes
• Adding Cheese: 2 minutes

Inactive Time (Baking and Resting): Approximately 1 hour – 1 hour 5 minutes

• Baking Covered: 1 hour
• Baking Uncovered (with cheese): 15-20 minutes
• Resting Time: 5-10 minutes

Time Breakdown Explanation:

• Active Time: This is the time you are actively involved in preparing the ingredients, cooking the ground beef, and assembling the casserole. Most of this time is spent prepping and cooking the ground beef and onions.
• Inactive Time: This is primarily the baking time, where the casserole is in the oven cooking without requiring your direct attention. This time is perfect for doing other chores or relaxing while the casserole bakes.

Planning Tips:

• Weeknight Meal: Hamburger Potato Casserole is ideal for a weeknight dinner due to its relatively short active preparation time.
• Prep Ahead: You can save time by prepping some ingredients in advance. Chop the onion and slice the potatoes earlier in the day or even the day before and store them separately in the refrigerator. Potatoes should be stored in water to prevent browning.
• Weekend Meal Prep: You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the baking step) ahead of time on the weekend and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Bake it the next day or within 2-3 days. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

By understanding the preparation time, you can easily fit Hamburger Potato Casserole into your weekly meal plan and enjoy a delicious and comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve: Delicious Ways to Enjoy Your Casserole

Hamburger Potato Casserole is a complete meal in itself, but it can be enhanced and complemented by various side dishes and serving suggestions. Here are some delicious ways to serve and enjoy your homemade casserole:

Classic and Simple Sides:

• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
• Steamed Green Beans: Steamed green beans, lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, offer a simple and healthy vegetable side that complements the casserole without overpowering it.
• Buttered Corn or Peas: Simple buttered corn or peas are classic, kid-friendly vegetable sides that pair well with the comforting flavors of the casserole.

Heartier and More Substantial Sides:

• Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: Serve warm dinner rolls or biscuits alongside the casserole for soaking up any extra sauce and adding another comforting element to the meal.
• Coleslaw or Potato Salad: For a picnic-style meal or a summer dinner, serve coleslaw or potato salad alongside the casserole. The coolness and tanginess of these salads provide a nice contrast.
• Mac and Cheese (for extra indulgence): If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve a small portion of mac and cheese as a side for a truly decadent and comforting meal.

Toppings and Garnishes to Enhance Flavor:

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cool and tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the casserole.
• Chopped Fresh Chives or Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or green onions over the casserole for a burst of fresh, oniony flavor and visual appeal.
• Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, offer hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the side to spice up the casserole to individual preferences.
• Crispy Fried Onions: Sprinkle crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole just before serving for added texture and onion flavor.

Serving Occasions:

• Weeknight Family Dinners: Hamburger Potato Casserole is perfect for easy and satisfying weeknight family dinners.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: Casseroles are ideal for potlucks and gatherings because they are easy to transport, serve a crowd, and are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Comfort Food Meals: Serve this casserole whenever you crave classic comfort food. It’s especially satisfying on cold evenings or when you need a hearty and warming meal.
• Leftovers for Lunch: Hamburger Potato Casserole leftovers are delicious for lunch the next day. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Hamburger Potato Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to be enjoyed by everyone. Experiment with different side dishes and toppings to create your perfect comforting meal!

Additional Tips for Casserole Baking Success

Baking a perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole is easy, but these extra tips can elevate your dish from good to great and ensure consistent success every time:

1. Slice Potatoes Evenly for Consistent Cooking: Uniformly sliced potatoes are crucial for even cooking. If some slices are too thick and others too thin, they will cook unevenly, resulting in some potatoes being undercooked while others are mushy. Aim for slices that are approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Use a mandoline slicer for precision or focus on consistent thickness when slicing by hand.
2. Don’t Overcook the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef until it’s just cooked through and no longer pink. Overcooking ground beef can make it dry and tough. It will continue to cook in the casserole, so it’s best to remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s browned. Keep it moist and tender for the best texture in your casserole.
3. Season Generously at Each Layer: Seasoning is key to flavorful casserole. Don’t just season the ground beef mixture; season the potato layers as well. A light sprinkle of salt and pepper on each potato layer before adding the sauce helps to ensure that the entire casserole is well-seasoned and flavorful throughout.
4. Ensure Potatoes are Submerged in Sauce: When assembling the casserole, make sure the potato layers are adequately coated and somewhat submerged in the cream sauce. The sauce provides moisture and helps the potatoes cook through and become tender. If the potatoes are too dry, they may not cook properly and can remain firm.
5. Adjust Baking Time Based on Potato Thickness and Oven: Baking times can vary slightly depending on the thickness of your potato slices and your oven’s calibration. Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork. They should be tender and easily pierced. If the potatoes are still firm after the initial hour of baking, continue baking, covered, for another 10-15 minutes before checking again. Always ensure the potatoes are fully cooked before adding the cheese and finishing the bake.

By incorporating these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking a consistently delicious and perfectly textured Hamburger Potato Casserole that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process and the wonderful comfort food result!

FAQ: Your Hamburger Potato Casserole Questions Answered

Baking Hamburger Potato Casserole is generally straightforward, but some questions may arise. Here are answers to five frequently asked questions to help you bake with confidence:

Q1: Can I use frozen potatoes in this casserole?

A: While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen sliced potatoes in a pinch. However, keep in mind:

• Thaw First: Thaw frozen potatoes completely and pat them dry with paper towels before layering them in the casserole. This removes excess moisture and prevents a watery casserole.
• Texture Difference: Frozen potatoes may have a slightly softer texture compared to fresh potatoes after baking.
• Baking Time: Frozen potatoes may cook slightly faster, so check for tenderness a bit earlier than the recipe suggests.

Fresh potatoes will generally yield the best texture and flavor, but frozen can be a convenient alternative when needed.

Q2: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian:

• Substitute Ground Beef: Replace ground beef with a plant-based ground beef substitute (like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger) or use lentils or crumbled firm tofu.
• Vegetable Broth: Ensure your cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly (some may contain chicken broth). You can also use vegetarian cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade vegetarian cream sauce.
• Add More Vegetables: Consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the casserole to enhance its flavor and heartiness.

With these substitutions, you can create a delicious and satisfying vegetarian potato casserole.

Q3: Can I add extra vegetables to this casserole?

A: Absolutely! Adding extra vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the casserole. Good additions include:

• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and ground beef.
• Bell Peppers: Dice bell peppers and sauté them with the onions and ground beef.
• Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach towards the end of cooking the ground beef mixture, allowing it to wilt.
• Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Slice zucchini or yellow squash and layer them with the potatoes in the casserole.
• Carrots: Dice carrots finely and sauté them with the onions and ground beef.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables to customize your casserole.

Q4: My casserole is too watery. How can I fix it?

A: A watery casserole can be due to a few factors:

• Excess Moisture from Potatoes: If you rinsed your potatoes after slicing, ensure they are thoroughly dried before layering them in the casserole.
• Frozen Vegetables: If using frozen vegetables, ensure they are thawed and drained well.
• Too Much Liquid: If you added extra milk or liquid, reduce the amount next time.

To fix a watery casserole:

• Bake Longer Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake the casserole uncovered for a longer period to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
• Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Gradually stir this slurry into the casserole sauce and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

Q5: Can I use different types of cheese for the topping?

A: Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cheeses for the topping to customize the flavor profile:

• Monterey Jack: Offers a mild, melty flavor.
• Colby Jack: A milder, creamy alternative to cheddar.
• Mozzarella: Provides excellent melt and stretch, though less flavor than cheddar.
• Pepper Jack: Adds a spicy kick.
• Smoked Gouda: Imparts a smoky, rich flavor.
• Sharp Cheddar: For a stronger, tangier cheese flavor.

You can also use a blend of cheeses to create a more complex flavor. Consider a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack or cheddar and mozzarella.

By understanding these common questions and answers, you’ll be well-prepared to bake a perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole and address any potential issues along the way. Enjoy your comforting and delicious homemade meal

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