When you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is an ideal choice. With layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a savory sauce, this casserole is both filling and flavorful. The combination of creamy cheese and savory beef makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing leftovers for the week, this dish can be made ahead and is the perfect solution for busy nights.
This recipe is easy to make and will be ready in about 1 hour, with the majority of that time spent baking. It is simple enough for a beginner and enjoyable for seasoned home cooks. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4-5 medium potatoes (peeled and cut into ½-inch thick slices)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend of your choice)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can (5 oz) evaporated milk
- Nonstick cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and gets bubbly on top.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Next, use a nonstick cooking spray to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help ensure the casserole does not stick during the baking process and is easy to serve.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large pan, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Break up the beef as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly browned. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess fat.
4. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the beef is cooking, peel and slice your potatoes into ½-inch thick slices. You can use a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer for uniform slices. Lay the sliced potatoes out on a flat surface.
5. Assemble the Layers:
Once the beef is ready, you can start assembling the casserole. Begin by arranging a layer of potato slices in the bottom of the greased baking dish. It’s important to spread the potatoes out in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
6. Season the Potatoes:
Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. This step is key to infusing flavor into the base layer of your casserole.
7. Add the Meat Mixture:
Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the layer of seasoned potatoes. Make sure the meat covers the potatoes completely.
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef mixture. This will melt into the layers during baking, adding a rich, cheesy flavor.
9. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering process two more times: add another layer of potatoes, followed by the meat mixture, and then a third of the remaining shredded cheese. Finish by adding the remaining cheese on top. The cheese will melt and create a golden, gooey topping.
10. Make the Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine the cheddar cheese soup, milk, and evaporated milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to boil. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the casserole.
11. Bake:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serving and Tips:
- Let it Rest:
Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the layers to set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve:
Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. It pairs well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This casserole can also be served as a main dish on its own, as it’s hearty and filling.
- Optional Garnish:
For an added touch, you can garnish with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and flavor.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its rich layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that will surely be loved by all. It’s an excellent choice for busy evenings, as it can be made in advance and is easy to reheat. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also budget-friendly, making it a great option for families looking for a filling, delicious dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for your family, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy!