Introduction
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that brings together layers of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, requiring simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Overview of the Recipe
This casserole is a one-dish meal that combines classic flavors in a way that’s satisfying for the whole family. The creamy mushroom sauce keeps the potatoes tender, while the beef and cheese add richness and flavor to every bite. With its ease of preparation and simple ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe for a quick, delicious dinner.
History and Origin
The origin of the hamburger potato casserole recipe is rooted in traditional American casseroles, which have long been a staple for home cooks. Casseroles became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly during the 1950s, when convenience foods, such as canned soups, became common pantry items. The hamburger potato casserole is a result of the American tendency to combine comfort foods like potatoes and cheese with quick-to-cook ground beef for a filling, delicious meal that feeds a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder or other preferred seasonings
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking when the casserole is assembled.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the chopped onions and cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
- Grease a casserole dish lightly with oil or non-stick spray. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. The thin slices help the potatoes cook evenly and absorb flavors.
Step 4: Add the Beef Layer
- Spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes, ensuring even distribution for each bite to include both beef and potatoes.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth. This creamy mixture will keep the potatoes tender and flavorful while baking.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the beef and potato layers in the casserole dish.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese adds a savory flavor and will melt into a gooey layer on top.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with foil, which helps to trap heat and steam, ensuring the potatoes cook evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes with the foil on. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Serving
Once baked, allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This lets the layers set slightly and makes serving easier. Scoop out portions with a large serving spoon and enjoy with a simple green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots for added color, texture, and nutrition.
- Bread: Warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls are excellent for mopping up any creamy sauce left in your dish.
Variations of the Recipe
- Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Add taco seasoning to the ground beef, and layer in black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cumin for a southwestern flavor. Substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Healthier Option: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade version using Greek yogurt or reduced-fat sour cream for fewer calories.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
Health Benefits and Notes
This casserole can be adjusted for different nutritional needs. For example:
- Protein: Ground beef provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Fiber: Potatoes contain fiber, particularly if you leave the skins on, which can aid digestion.
- Calcium: The cheddar cheese adds a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
- Vitamin C and Potassium: Potatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium, supporting immunity and cardiovascular health.
To reduce fat content, choose a leaner ground beef option, use low-fat cheese, or reduce the amount of cheese on top.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, it freezes well. Assemble it as directed, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time and check for doneness.
Q: Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup? A: If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or a homemade cream sauce using milk, flour, and butter for a similar consistency.
Q: How can I make this casserole gluten-free? A: Use a gluten-free version of cream of mushroom soup or make a simple homemade sauce with gluten-free flour.
Conclusion
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic recipe that brings comforting flavors to the table with minimal effort. Its layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese are sure to become a favorite family meal. Versatile and easily adaptable, this dish can be tailored to various tastes and dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for a satisfying and balanced meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this casserole is a winner that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
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Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s an all-in-one dinner that’s quick to prepare and perfect for satisfying family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder or other seasonings
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions, seasoning with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Cook until beef is fully browned and onions are softened.
- Layer Potatoes: Grease a casserole dish and arrange the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom.
- Add Beef Layer: Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth, then pour this mixture over the beef and potato layers.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and potatoes are fork-tender.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Use a homemade cream sauce if avoiding canned soup.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Ground Beef Potato Casserole, Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, Simple Beef and Potato Bake, Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe