When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes can compete with the classic casserole. Among the many variations, the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole stands out as a quintessential family favorite. This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef and onions with layers of tender russet potatoes and melted cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore why this casserole is a beloved staple in many households.
Ingredients
To create this delectable casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thin
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed Cheddar soup
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation
Prepping the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and reach the perfect consistency.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Set the dish aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cooking the Ground Beef
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and finely diced yellow onion. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, making sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain the excess fat and set the beef mixture aside.
Layering the Ingredients
- Layer the Potatoes and Beef: Arrange a single layer of the peeled and sliced russet potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season this layer with salt and pepper. Top the potatoes with 1/4 of the cooked beef mixture and 1/4 of the grated cheddar cheese. Repeat this process three more times, creating four layers in total. Each layer should include potatoes, beef, and cheese, ensuring even distribution of ingredients throughout the casserole.
Making the Cheesy Sauce
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed cheddar soup, evaporated milk, regular milk, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This cheesy sauce will infuse the casserole with rich, creamy flavors as it bakes.
Baking the Casserole
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. This sauce will seep through the layers, ensuring that each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and help the potatoes cook through. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: After 60 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top of the casserole is golden brown and bubbly. This final step gives the dish a deliciously crispy and cheesy crust.
Serving and Enjoying
- Serve: Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions.
- Enjoy: Serve this comforting casserole as a main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. The combination of savory beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Tips and Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Beef: For a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. These alternatives will still provide a flavorful and satisfying casserole.
- Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella or adding some Parmesan cheese can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Milk: If you don’t have evaporated milk on hand, regular whole milk can be used as a substitute. The evaporated milk, however, gives a creamier texture to the sauce.
Additional Ingredients
- Vegetables: Add a layer of vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach between the potato and beef layers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley. A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick to the dish.
Cooking Tips
- Uniform Potato Slices: To ensure even cooking, make sure the potato slices are of uniform thickness. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices.
- Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that embodies comfort and nostalgia. Its layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich cheese sauce create a meal that is both satisfying and heartwarming. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or serving a crowd, this casserole is sure to be a hit. By following these simple steps, you can create a dish that will become a beloved favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of making this classic casserole that brings joy to every bite.
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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Comforting Classic
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Description
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. This casserole layers savory ground beef with tender potatoes and a rich, cheesy sauce, making it an ideal one-dish meal that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg