Easy 5-ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a quick and delicious meal to satisfy the entire family? This easy 5-ingredient hamburger and potato casserole recipe is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. It's hearty, comforting, and takes minimal effort to put together. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe will become a staple in your home. Keep reading to discover all the tips, tricks, and variations you can use to make this dish even more delightful!

What is a Hamburger & Potato Casserole?

A hamburger and potato casserole is a comforting, layered dish made with ground beef, potatoes, and usually some form of creamy sauce or cheese. It combines hearty flavors and textures to create a meal that's both filling and delicious. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even for meal prepping since it reheats well. In this recipe, we focus on simplicity without sacrificing flavor, using only five ingredients to create a mouthwatering casserole.

Ingredients List for Hamburger & Potato Casserole

To make this easy 5-ingredient hamburger and potato casserole, you'll need the following:

1. Ground Beef – The star of the dish, providing a hearty and flavorful base. Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish from being too greasy, but any type will work.
2. Potatoes – Thinly sliced, they add texture and substance to the casserole. Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold up well during baking.
3. Cream of Mushroom Soup – This gives the casserole its creamy consistency, binding the ingredients together while adding rich flavor.
4. Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar adds a satisfying cheesy finish on top. You can also mix it into the layers if you prefer more cheese throughout the dish.
5. Onion – Finely chopped onion enhances the flavor of the ground beef and adds a bit of sweetness when cooked.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about a hamburger and potato casserole is how customizable it is. Here are a few substitution and variation ideas to make the recipe fit your taste or dietary needs:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat altogether and add layers of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or lentils for a veggie-packed casserole.
• Different Cheeses: Replace cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a new flavor twist.
• Cream of Chicken or Celery Soup: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different creamy texture and flavor.
• Potato Options: If you don’t have russet potatoes on hand, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work just as well.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate more vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for extra nutrients and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Here’s how you can make this easy 5-ingredient hamburger and potato casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (9x13 inch) lightly with non-stick spray or butter to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them thinly, about ⅛ inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for even slices. Set the potatoes aside once they’re prepped.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the beef is done, drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Start by spreading a thin layer of cream of mushroom soup on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Next, create an even layer of sliced potatoes on top of the soup. Sprinkle a portion of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by more soup. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used up. End with a layer of the remaining soup on top.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a golden, bubbly cheese crust once baked.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the dish to set and make it easier to slice.

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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds.
3. Cook the ground beef and onions until the beef is browned.
4. Layer the ingredients: Start with soup, then potatoes, beef, and continue.
5. Add cheese on top for the final layer.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, covered, then another 15 minutes uncovered.
7. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious, hot, and hearty casserole ready in no time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is simple, here are a few common mistakes to keep in mind:

1. Not slicing the potatoes thinly enough: Thicker slices of potato will take longer to cook, which may leave you with undercooked potatoes. Ensure they are about ⅛ inch thick for even cooking.
2. Overcooking the ground beef: Avoid cooking the beef too long before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Skipping the resting time: Letting the casserole rest allows the layers to set, which makes for easier slicing and better presentation.
4. Not draining excess fat from the beef: Make sure to drain any grease from the beef after cooking to avoid a greasy casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your hamburger and potato casserole even more appealing, follow these tips:

How to Serve Hamburger & Potato Casserole

This casserole is best served warm, straight out of the oven. Use a spatula to scoop out portions onto plates, ensuring each serving has a good mix of beef, potatoes, and cheese. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger & Potato Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve in individual ramekins: Instead of making one large casserole, you can divide the mixture into smaller oven-safe dishes for individual servings.
• Layer it artistically: If you want to impress guests, carefully layer the potatoes and beef so the dish looks structured and neat when sliced.

Hamburger & Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.
• Double the recipe: If you’re cooking for a large crowd, this recipe is easy to scale up. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
• Store leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use instant potatoes instead of sliced potatoes?
While fresh potatoes provide the best texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a substitute if you’re in a pinch. Just layer them as you would with sliced potatoes.

2. How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until heated through.

4. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This easy 5-ingredient hamburger and potato casserole is a perfect go-to recipe when you’re short on time but still want a hearty, delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the tips and variations included, you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal today!

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