Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Are you craving a warm, hearty, and delicious meal that’s packed with flavors and guaranteed to satisfy? This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite! Whether you're preparing a cozy dinner for a chilly evening or serving it at a potluck, this casserole has all the ingredients for a satisfying meal. From tender potatoes to seasoned beef, all topped with gooey melted cheese, it's pure comfort in every bite. Read on to discover how to create this mouthwatering dish and learn tips and tricks along the way!

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What is a Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

A Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a layered dish that combines ground beef, sliced or diced potatoes, and lots of cheese in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s baked until the cheese melts into the potatoes and the beef is perfectly cooked, creating a rich and hearty casserole that hits all the right notes. It’s simple to make, and the result is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a side salad, vegetables, or even on its own.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

To get started, gather these simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry or fridge:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean recommended)
• 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (russet or Yukon gold work best)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole (Optional Add-ons)

While the core ingredients make this casserole wonderfully rich and satisfying, there are several optional ingredients and variations you can add to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Crumbled bacon (for an extra smoky, crispy topping)
• Chopped bell peppers (add a pop of color and sweetness)
• Frozen peas or corn (add a bit of texture and sweetness)
• Chopped mushrooms (add umami depth)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for an additional cheesy kick)
• Hot sauce or chili flakes (if you prefer a spicy twist)

Substitutions and Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is incredibly versatile, and you can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary requirements. Here are some easy substitutions and variations:

• Ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter alternative, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
• Sweet potatoes: If you want a slightly sweet twist or are aiming for more nutrients, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and use a plant-based ground beef substitute, or add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Low-carb option: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower florets for a low-carb version of this casserole.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy milk substitute, such as almond or soy milk, to make this casserole lactose-free.
• Gluten-free option: Choose a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the cooking process. This is a simple recipe that doesn’t require advanced skills, just a little patience as it bakes to perfection.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, sauté the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This adds a nice depth of flavor to your casserole.

Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes

While the onions are cooking, wash and thinly slice the potatoes. Try to slice them evenly so they cook through at the same rate.

Step 5: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir until smooth, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, begin layering your ingredients. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of the cooked ground beef, and then a sprinkle of sautéed onions. Pour a portion of the sauce over the layers and then add a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to get bubbly and golden brown.

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

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown ground beef with seasonings.
3. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
4. Slice potatoes evenly.
5. Mix together mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream for the creamy sauce.
6. Layer potatoes, beef, onions, sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish.
7. Cover and bake for 45-50 minutes, then remove cover and bake another 10-15 minutes until bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: You want the beef browned but not dried out, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Uneven potato slices: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly so they cook through completely.
• Forgetting to drain fat from the beef: Not draining the fat can make the casserole greasy.
• Too much liquid: Avoid adding too much milk or soup to prevent a soupy texture. Stick to the recipe quantities.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving a casserole like this. While it may not be the most glamorous dish, a few simple touches can make it look as good as it tastes.

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top adds a bright pop of color and freshness.
• Add a side salad: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad to add balance and freshness to your meal.
• Serve with crusty bread: Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or cheese.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Serve the casserole piping hot straight from the oven.
• Cut into generous squares and plate it up with a sprinkle of parsley or thyme for a professional touch.
• For a well-rounded meal, pair the casserole with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Cast Iron Skillet: For a rustic, homey feel, serve the casserole directly from a cast iron skillet.
• Individual ramekins: If you’re hosting guests, bake the casserole in small ramekins for individual servings.
• Family-style platter: Place the casserole in the center of the table on a large platter, letting everyone help themselves.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, so it’s best to grate your own.
• Make ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
• Freezing leftovers: This casserole freezes well. Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your ground beef and sauce before assembling the casserole to ensure it’s well-seasoned.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen diced or hash brown potatoes to save time. Just be sure to thaw them before using.

2. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

3. How long does the casserole last in the fridge?

It can last in the fridge for 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container.

4. Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is everything you could want in a comfort food dish—savory, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal to enjoy with family, this casserole is a winner. Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit your tastes and dietary needs. So why not give it a try tonight? Serve it up with your favorite sides, and enjoy the ultimate comfort meal that everyone will love!

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