Hamburger and Potato Casserole Recipe

If you're searching for a comforting, budget-friendly, and simple meal, look no further than this Hamburger and Potato Casserole. This hearty dish combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce, all baked together to create a cozy, filling meal perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just want something that reheats well for leftovers, this casserole is the perfect solution. With minimal ingredients and easy prep, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights.

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What is Hamburger and Potato Casserole?

Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a classic layered dish that combines seasoned ground beef (aka hamburger meat), thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. It's like a mash-up between a shepherd's pie and scalloped potatoes, offering a rich and hearty flavor profile that’s bound to be a hit with the entire family. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and can easily be customized with additional vegetables or cheese to suit your taste.

Ingredients List for Hamburger and Potato Casserole

To make this comforting casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 5-6 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about ¼-inch thick)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Additional Ingredients for More Flavor

If you want to elevate the flavors of this casserole, consider adding these optional ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
• 1 can corn (drained) or 1 cup frozen corn
• ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra cheesy goodness
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a slight kick

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole recipe is very flexible and can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs or preferences. Here are a few substitution ideas:

• Ground Beef: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option.
• Potatoes: You can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead of russet potatoes. If you're in a hurry, frozen hash browns or pre-sliced potatoes also work well.
• Soup: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
• Cheese: Swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Swiss for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Hamburger and Potato Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a deep casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme (or Italian seasoning), and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and well combined. For extra creaminess, you can mix in sour cream or cream cheese at this stage.

Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, wash and peel the potatoes (if preferred) and slice them thinly—about ¼-inch thick. A mandoline slicer works great for this if you have one, but a sharp knife will work just fine.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Then pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce. For an extra cheesy casserole, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese between the layers or on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. If you added cheese on top, it should be nicely melted and slightly browned.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot!

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

• Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease the baking dish.
• Step 2: Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, and season.
• Step 3: Mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk for the creamy sauce.
• Step 4: Thinly slice the potatoes.
• Step 5: Layer potatoes, beef mixture, and creamy sauce in the baking dish.
• Step 6: Cover and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for 15-20 minutes.
• Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not cooking the beef thoroughly: Ensure the ground beef is fully cooked before layering it into the casserole to avoid undercooked meat.
2. Slicing the potatoes too thick: Thinly slice the potatoes (¼-inch thick) so they cook evenly. If the slices are too thick, the potatoes may not cook through in the allotted time.
3. Skipping the foil cover: If you skip covering the casserole with foil for the first part of baking, the top will cook too quickly while the potatoes underneath may still be undercooked.
4. Not letting the casserole rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is perfect for serving as a hearty main dish. Here’s how to make it look even more appealing:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top to brighten up the dish.
• Serve with a side salad: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness of the meal.
• Offer condiments: Serve with sour cream, hot sauce, or even ketchup for those who like a bit of extra flavor on their casseroles.

How to Serve Hamburger and Potato Casserole

Once the casserole has rested, use a large spatula to cut it into squares or rectangles and serve. Each serving will have a perfect balance of beef, potatoes, and creamy sauce. This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or even a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger and Potato Casserole

For an attractive presentation, consider these tips:

• Color contrast: Top the casserole with fresh parsley or green onions to add a vibrant color contrast to the golden top layer.
• Individual servings: If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins or mini baking dishes for a more elegant presentation.
• Rustic vibe: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation that feels homey and comforting.

Hamburger and Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 10-15 extra minutes to the bake time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish (but don’t bake it) and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use frozen sliced potatoes or hash browns to save time. Just make sure they are thawed before layering them into the casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole with sweet potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be used instead of russet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-rich variation.

Q: How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
A: The potatoes should be fork-tender when the casserole is done. If you find that the potatoes aren’t fully cooked after the baking time, you

can cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Yes! You can mix in frozen or fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Hamburger and Potato Casserole is the perfect dish when you need a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce is incredibly satisfying and customizable. Whether you're looking for a go-to weeknight dinner or a dish that can be prepped ahead of time, this casserole has you covered. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will love!

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