Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Are you craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the best of cheesy, savory flavors? Look no further than this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole! Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a melty cheese topping, this casserole is both simple to make and utterly delicious. Read on to discover all the details, tips, and tricks for perfecting this comforting classic.

What is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is an easy-to-make, layered dish that combines ground beef (or hamburger), thinly sliced potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce. The flavors come together to create a filling, satisfying meal that’s ideal for feeding a crowd or just indulging in comfort food. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, allowing for ingredient swaps and variations based on your preferences.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

To get started with this cheesy, satisfying casserole, gather the following ingredients. These essentials will give you the classic taste everyone loves:

• Ground Beef: 1 lb of lean ground beef (80/20 is ideal for flavor)
• Potatoes: 4–5 medium Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds more flavor)
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
• Milk: 1 cup of milk (whole milk preferred for a creamier texture)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons of butter for added richness
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon for a bit of warmth and color
• Parsley: 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional Ingredients to Elevate the Flavor

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can add extra ingredients to take it up a notch! Here are a few optional items to consider:

• Bacon: ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor
• Bell Peppers: 1 cup of diced red or green bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch
• Sour Cream: ½ cup for added creaminess
• Hot Sauce: A few dashes of hot sauce for some heat
• Green Onions: 2–3 green onions, chopped for a fresh bite on top

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is how adaptable it is. Whether you're accommodating dietary restrictions or just prefer to mix things up, here are some handy substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content while keeping the dish flavorful.
• Sweet Potatoes: Replace Russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, healthier twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat entirely and add a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a veggie-packed casserole.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your cheese and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Different Cheeses: Try using a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's get cooking! Follow these easy steps to bring your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole to life:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and thinly slice your potatoes (about ¼ inch thick). Set aside.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.

4. Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they become translucent, about 3 minutes.

5. Combine Soup and Milk

In a bowl, mix the can of cream of mushroom soup with 1 cup of milk. Stir well until smooth and creamy.

6. Layer the Casserole

In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Top with half of the ground beef, then pour half of the soup mixture over the meat. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, soup mixture, and cheese.

7. Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. After 60 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.

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

The layering process in this casserole ensures that each bite is full of flavor. Here's a quick breakdown of the essential steps for a perfectly cooked dish:

1. Browning the Beef: Ensure the beef is fully browned and well-seasoned before layering it into the casserole. Draining excess fat prevents the dish from becoming greasy.
2. Slicing the Potatoes: Thin, even slices are key. If the slices are too thick, they won’t cook all the way through in the oven. A mandoline slicer is helpful for consistency.
3. Layering Ingredients: To achieve even distribution of flavor, layer half the potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese. Repeat for best results.
4. Baking Time: Baking for 60 minutes covered ensures the potatoes are cooked through, and uncovering the dish in the last 20–30 minutes allows the cheese to develop that irresistible golden crust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the Potatoes: If your potatoes are too thick, they might not cook fully. Always ensure even slicing for perfect doneness.
• Skipping the Drain on Beef: Not draining excess fat from the cooked beef can lead to a greasy casserole.
• Overloading on Cheese: While cheese is a star ingredient, adding too much can make the casserole overly rich and heavy.
• Forgetting to Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking ensures the layers set properly and are easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving this casserole, a little attention to presentation goes a long way. The melted cheese and layered potatoes make for an eye-catching dish, but here are a few additional tips:

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Portioning: Use a large serving spoon or spatula to ensure each portion includes all the layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese.
• Pairing: Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Meal Prep: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping for the week. Simply store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Herb Garnish: Add a pop of color by garnishing with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
• Cheese Crisps: If you want to elevate the presentation, sprinkle extra cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking to get a crispy cheese crust.
• Layered Plates: For a more formal presentation, serve the casserole in pre-portioned dishes with a garnish of fresh herbs and a drizzle of sour cream or hot sauce.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Cheese Options: While cheddar is the classic choice, mixing in a bit of mozzarella or gouda will give a creamier, stringier texture.
• Pre-cook the Potatoes: If you're short on time, you can pre-cook the potato slices by boiling them for 5 minutes before layering them into the casserole.
• Customize the Spice Level: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef for a kick of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Once baked, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F.

Q: Can I use different kinds of meat?
A: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work well in this recipe.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food that blends creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of beef and potatoes. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe is a winner. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious flavors, it’s no wonder this casserole has become a favorite in households everywhere. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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