Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, comforting dish that will bring everyone to the table, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a must-try! With layers of creamy potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Whether you're making it for a weekday meal or a special gathering, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious casserole step-by-step, along with some tips, substitutions, and variations to suit your taste!

What is a Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

A Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic, savory dish that combines tender slices of potatoes with seasoned ground beef and plenty of melted cheese. It’s baked to perfection in the oven, creating a golden, crispy topping and a rich, creamy filling. This casserole is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings. The best part? It’s a one-dish meal that includes protein, veggies, and dairy, making it a wholesome option for the entire family.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make this mouthwatering casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking beef)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a highly adaptable recipe, and there are several substitutions and variations you can try depending on your preferences or what you have on hand:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
2. Cream of Chicken Soup: If you're not a fan of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
3. Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix it up with mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
4. Add Veggies: To make the casserole more nutritious, add a layer of veggies like spinach, green beans, or corn.
5. Use Sweet Potatoes: For a slightly sweeter and healthier twist, substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Wash and peel your potatoes. Thinly slice them into rounds, about ¼ inch thick. Set them aside.
3. Cook the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Mix the creamy sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth. This mixture will give your casserole its creamy consistency.
5. Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture, then pour half of the soup mixture over the beef. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and another cup of cheddar cheese.
6. Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.

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

1. Preheat and Prep: Before doing anything, preheat your oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish. This ensures an even cooking temperature and prevents the casserole from sticking to the pan.
2. Slice the Potatoes Evenly: One of the keys to a perfectly cooked casserole is slicing the potatoes thin and uniformly. This ensures that all the layers cook evenly, giving you tender, creamy potatoes in every bite.
3. Brown the Beef: Cooking the beef with onions and seasoning helps develop the base flavor for the casserole. Don’t skip draining the excess fat, as it can make the casserole greasy.
4. Layer Strategically: Make sure to layer your ingredients evenly. Start with potatoes at the bottom, followed by the beef and cheese layers, ensuring each bite is well-balanced.
5. Bake with Patience: Covering the casserole while baking allows the potatoes to steam and become tender. Removing the foil at the end lets the cheese brown and crisp up perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not slicing the potatoes thin enough: Thick potato slices will take longer to cook, potentially leading to undercooked potatoes.
• Over-seasoning: Since the cream of mushroom soup and cheese both contain salt, be mindful not to over-season the casserole. Taste the beef mixture before adding extra salt.
• Skipping the foil: If you don't cover the casserole, the cheese may burn, and the potatoes may dry out before they cook through.
• Not letting it rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving a dish as delicious as Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. Here are some tips to make it look as good as it tastes:

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a rustic, comforting family-style dinner.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into squares and plate each serving with a garnish of fresh parsley or green onions.
• Add a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the casserole with a light green salad or steamed veggies on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme over the casserole before serving to add a pop of color.
• Cheese Pull Moment: As you serve the casserole, let the cheese stretch and melt for a visually enticing presentation. Everyone loves a good cheese pull!
• Top with Crispy Onions: For extra crunch and flavor, top the casserole with crispy fried onions just before serving.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• For Faster Cooking: Par-boil the potato slices for 5-7 minutes before layering them into the casserole. This will reduce the baking time.
• Add a Crispy Topping: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter over the top before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you're looking for a leaner option. It will still be delicious!

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese! Cheddar is classic, but Swiss, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses will work well.

4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup you’re using is gluten-free or make your own from scratch.

5. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this casserole will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of cheesy goodness, hearty beef, and tender potatoes makes it a true comfort food classic. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this delicious casserole in no time. Plus, with the option to customize it with your favorite cheeses, veggies, and meats, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any palate. Give it a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!

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