Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Comprehensive Guide
Hearty, cheesy, and satisfying, this hamburger potato casserole is a timeless family favorite for any night of the week.
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Classic Hamburger Potato Casserole
This hamburger potato casserole is a beloved staple in family kitchens across America. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, savory mushroom soup, and melted Cheddar cheese, every forkful brings a taste of nostalgia and home-cooked comfort. Ideal for weeknights or gatherings, this casserole is both filling and easy to customize. Read on for everything you need to know to create the perfect hamburger potato casserole, plus tips, storage info, and answers to your most common questions!
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Hearty and Satisfying: With meat, potatoes, and cheese, it’s a complete meal in one dish.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Customizable: Easy to swap in your favorite cheeses or add vegetables.
- Family Approved: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Lean or regular, browned and drained.
- Potatoes: Peeled and sliced thin for even cooking.
- Onion: Sliced or diced for added flavor.
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: Provides a creamy, savory base.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded, to melt throughout the casserole.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the layers.
- Optional add-ins: Garlic powder, paprika, parsley, or frozen mixed vegetables for variety.
Ingredient Table at a Glance
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | Protein and savory flavor |
| Potatoes | Base/richness, hearty texture |
| Onion | Sweetness and depth |
| Cream of Mushroom Soup | Creamy sauce, binds casserole |
| Cheddar Cheese | Melty, tangy finish |
| Salt & Pepper | Essential seasoning |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice potatoes thinly (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick) for faster, more even cooking.
- Layer the casserole:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.
- Sprinkle half the sliced onions (if using) over potatoes.
- Top with half the cooked ground beef.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon half the condensed soup over the beef layer, spreading gently.
- Repeat layers: potatoes, onions, beef, seasoning, ending with the remaining soup.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours (until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork).
- Add cheese: Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest, serve, and enjoy: Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Thin potato slices: Ensure potatoes are evenly and thinly sliced to promote even baking.
- Season each layer: Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper over each layer for balanced flavor.
- Mix up your cheese: Swap Cheddar for Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for a different flavor profile.
- Add veggies: Frozen mixed vegetables, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added for more nutrition and color.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Variations and Substitutions
- Sausage or Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for breakfast sausage, spicy Italian sausage, or lean ground turkey.
- Cream of Chicken or Cheddar Soup: Use cream of chicken, celery, or cheddar soup in place of mushroom for a different taste.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Crispy Topping: Sprinkle French-fried onions or buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese layer before baking.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream soup or make your own roux with gluten-free flour and broth.
What to Serve With Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Green Salad: A crisp side salad balances the richness with freshness.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or peas work well.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Simple Fruit Salad: A refreshing and light finish to your meal.
Storing and Reheating
- Leftovers: Store any extra casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the casserole, covered, in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different meats in this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, pork, or sausage for ground beef. Each offers a unique flavor and texture.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, peas, corn, or any quick-cooking veggie. Add them in layers along with the potatoes and beef for extra nutrition and variety.
What kind of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are both excellent choices. Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture, while Russets become tender and soak up flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which may not soften enough.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Allow for several extra minutes of baking if starting from cold.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free condensed soup or make your own gluten-free sauce by thickening milk and broth with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition may vary based on ingredients and portion size. Here is an approximate breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 24-32g
- Fat: 18-24g
For lighter options, use lean ground meat, reduced-fat cheese, or low-sodium soup.
Expert Tips for Success
- Test for Doneness: The casserole is done when potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allow 5-10 minutes for the casserole to set, making slicing and serving easier.
- Double for a Crowd: Easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish for parties or family gatherings.
Make It Your Own
This classic casserole is endlessly adaptable. Try experimenting with different cheeses (Swiss, Pepper Jack, or Gouda), adding layers of sautéed mushrooms, or even mixing in cooked bacon for a smoky twist. The comfort food foundation leaves plenty of room for creativity and personal flair.
Conclusion
Hamburger potato casserole is a timeless favorite for good reason—it’s warm, comforting, filling, and a wonderful way to bring the family together around the dinner table. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and simple steps, you can have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Try this easy recipe, make it your own, and let it become part of your family tradition!
References
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/26609/hamburger-potato-casserole/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/233391/creamy-hamburger-potato-casserole/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/286369/cheesy-ground-beef-and-potatoes/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/280996/best-ever-beef-and-potatoes-casserole/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0Z3_WzBQig
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