If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal, the Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole is an excellent choice. This dish combines ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, creating a satisfying and affordable recipe that’s perfect for family dinners. It’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.
This casserole is a classic comfort food that’s flexible and full of flavor, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. It might even become a new family favorite! Here’s how to make this delicious dish step by step:
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef – Use lean or extra-lean meat to minimize grease.
4-5 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal for this recipe.
1 small onion, chopped – Adds flavor and a slight crunch.
1 can of cream of mushroom soup – Acts as the base for the creamy sauce. (Cream of chicken or celery soup can be substituted.)
1/2 cup milk – Helps thin out the sauce.
1-2 cups grated cheddar cheese – Provides a rich, cheesy topping.
Salt and pepper – Adjust to taste.
Optional seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for extra flavor.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the flavors blend together beautifully.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin rounds, approximately 1/8-inch thick. Consistent slicing ensures they cook evenly. Use a mandoline slicer if available to save time and effort.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Add the chopped onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften. Drain any excess fat and season the beef with salt, pepper, and optional spices like garlic powder or paprika.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, mix the can of cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth. This creamy mixture will keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
5. Layer the Ingredients
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Begin by arranging half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Add half of the cooked ground beef on top of the potatoes, followed by half of the soup mixture.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and soup mixture.
6. Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer. The cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust during baking.
7. Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
After an hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or green onions for extra flavor and color.
Tips for Success
Slice Evenly: Thin, uniform potato slices cook evenly. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for precision and efficiency.
Add Veggies: Incorporate extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variety.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
Easy Preparation: The straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
Family-Friendly: Its hearty and satisfying flavors appeal to all ages, making it a great choice for family dinners.
This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic dish!