Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and hearty meal that’s perfect for weeknights or family gatherings, this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is just what you need! It’s a classic comfort food dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a satisfying dinner that’s sure to please everyone. Keep reading for the full recipe, variations, and helpful tips!

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What Is Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Hamburger Potato Casserole is a one-dish meal that layers seasoned ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce. The ground beef provides the protein, while the thinly sliced potatoes give the dish heartiness and texture. It’s topped with cheese and baked until bubbly and golden, making it a warm and comforting meal for any night of the week. This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, and it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes.

Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 medium russet potatoes (thinly sliced)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for variation)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients are simple, affordable, and pantry-friendly, making this recipe a go-to for busy families.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Hamburger Potato Casserole is how easy it is to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Protein options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
• Cream soup alternatives: Instead of canned cream of mushroom soup, you can make your own by mixing 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon flour, then whisking in 1 cup milk or broth to create a creamy sauce.
• Cheese variations: While cheddar is classic, you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor twist.
• Potato options: Yukon gold potatoes or red potatoes can be used instead of russet potatoes. You can also try sweet potatoes for a unique variation.
• Vegetables: Add layers of vegetables like sliced carrots, peas, or green beans for more texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.

These options make it easy to adapt the recipe to your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to make this delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Season the Ground Beef

Once the ground beef is cooked, season it with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and set aside.

Step 4: Slice the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, peel (if desired) and slice the potatoes thinly, about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline slicer can make this process faster and more uniform, but a sharp knife works just as well.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creamy mixture will help bind the casserole together and keep it moist during baking.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes. Pour half of the soup and milk mixture over the beef and potatoes, and then sprinkle ¾ cup of shredded cheese over the top.

Repeat the layers: add the remaining potatoes, ground beef mixture, soup mixture, and finish with the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheese.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. In the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy!

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

Here’s a quick recap of the steps for making Hamburger Potato Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the ground beef with onions and garlic until browned, then season.
3. Slice the potatoes thinly for layering.
4. Whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk for the creamy sauce.
5. Layer the casserole: potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese.
6. Bake for 60-70 minutes, covering with foil and removing it in the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
7. Garnish and serve with fresh parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Hamburger Potato Casserole:

• Undercooking the potatoes: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly (about ⅛-inch thick). Thick slices may not cook through properly during baking, leaving you with undercooked potatoes.
• Skipping the foil: Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking ensures the potatoes cook evenly and don’t dry out.
• Not seasoning enough: Potatoes can absorb a lot of flavor, so be sure to season the ground beef mixture well with salt, pepper, and other spices.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Hamburger Potato Casserole is a cozy, family-style dish, but you can still elevate the presentation with a few touches.

How to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole

Serve this casserole hot from the oven. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty bread. It’s also perfect for family gatherings or potlucks because it can feed a crowd and is easy to portion.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or even a little green onion on top to add color and freshness.
• Serve in portions: For a neater presentation, cut the casserole into even squares or portions and plate individually.
• Add a colorful side: Pair the casserole with a bright green salad or roasted vegetables for a vibrant meal.

Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some final tips to help you make the best Hamburger Potato Casserole:

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if coming straight from the fridge.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it but don’t bake, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Use a mandoline: A mandoline slicer makes slicing the potatoes thin and even, which ensures they cook evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works great as a leaner option and still pairs well with the potatoes and creamy sauce.

2. Can I freeze Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. How long does Hamburger Potato Casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole will last for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

4. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, you can easily add vegetables like peas, green beans, or carrots to make it a more complete meal.

5. How do I reheat Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a satisfying, budget-friendly dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and cheesy goodness, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with different proteins, veggies, and cheeses. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight meal or preparing it ahead for later, this casserole is always a winning choice.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of this Hamburger Potato Casserole tonight!

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