When the craving for comfort food strikes, few dishes can compete with the rich flavors of a hearty casserole. The Tasty Hamburger and Potato Bake is a timeless recipe that combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep, this bake is not only delicious but also easy to prepare with just a few staple ingredients. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bring this dish to life, including preparation time, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results.
Ingredients and Preparation Time
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds to ensure they cook evenly. Dice the onion and set it aside. - Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent. Drain any excess fat and set the beef and onion mixture aside. - Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended. - Layer the Ingredients
Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Add a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, then spread a layer of the creamy sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sauce on top. - Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. If desired, top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture. - Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. - Let it Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes. This will make it easier to serve and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Cut into portions and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Even Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even potato slices, which will ensure they cook uniformly.
- Seasoning Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or dried thyme to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms to the layers.
The Tasty Hamburger and Potato Bake is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. It’s easy to make, satisfies a hungry crowd, and uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or a cozy dish to bring to a gathering, this casserole has you covered. Serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. Give it a try, and watch as this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen!