Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, hearty casserole. And if you're a fan of savory flavors, melted cheese, and the satisfying crunch of baked potatoes, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect dish for you! This recipe is a fantastic choice for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping because it combines simple ingredients in a way that will leave everyone craving more. So, grab your skillet and let's dive into the world of cheesy, meaty goodness. Read on to discover how to make this classic comfort dish step by step!

What is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is an all-in-one dish that layers ground beef, potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked together until golden and bubbly. The casserole is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. It's a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s great for feeding a family or entertaining guests. The combination of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese makes for a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Before you begin cooking, gather all your ingredients for the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. Having everything prepped and ready will make the process much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef – Preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for flavor and moisture.
• 4-5 medium russet potatoes – Peeled and thinly sliced (Yukon Gold potatoes work well too).
• 1 small onion – Diced for added flavor and texture.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced to enhance the dish’s aroma.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – You can also use cream of chicken soup for a slightly different flavor.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – The star of the dish; feel free to use a cheese blend if desired.
• 1 cup milk – Helps create the creamy sauce base.
• 2 tablespoon butter – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To season the meat and potatoes.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of spice.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Optional, but adds a nice smoky flavor.
• Chopped parsley – For garnish (optional, but adds freshness).

Ingredients List for Sauce and Toppings

For that extra cheesy, creamy finish, you’ll also want a simple sauce and topping mixture:

• ½ cup sour cream – Adds richness to the casserole.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – For a crunchy topping.
• 2 tablespoon melted butter – To mix with the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, nutty flavor to the top layer.

Substitutions and Variations

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is versatile, and there are plenty of ways you can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Ground turkey or chicken – Swap the ground beef for a leaner option to reduce fat content.
• Sweet potatoes – For a twist on the classic, use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Vegetarian option – Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese options – While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Cream of chicken soup – If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken works well too. You can even make your own cream sauce from scratch if you prefer to avoid canned soups.
• Add veggies – Incorporate veggies like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms to bulk up the casserole and add extra nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Let’s go over how to prepare your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole step by step. Follow these instructions for a perfectly baked, flavorful casserole every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, peel and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds, about ⅛-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender during baking.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the can of cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Whisk until smooth. This will create a rich, creamy sauce that binds the layers together.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Now it’s time to layer your casserole. In the greased baking dish, spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer. Top the potatoes with half of the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over the meat and potatoes, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and sauce. Finish with a final layer of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top layer of the casserole. This adds a crispy, golden finish to your dish.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once your casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not slicing potatoes thin enough – If your potato slices are too thick, they may not cook through properly, leaving you with crunchy, undercooked potatoes. Aim for ⅛-inch slices for even cooking.
• Skipping the draining of ground beef – Failing to drain the excess fat from the cooked ground beef can make your casserole greasy.
• Overbaking – Keep an eye on the casserole during the uncovered baking time to avoid burning the breadcrumb topping.
• Not seasoning the potatoes – Don’t forget to season each layer with salt and pepper to ensure the flavors are well-balanced throughout the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is cooked, it's time to serve it up! The casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs well with a light side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Sliced and plated – Slice the casserole into even squares or rectangles and carefully lift each portion onto a plate. Serve hot with a garnish of parsley or a drizzle of sour cream on the side.
• Family-style – For a more casual presentation, place the casserole dish on the table and let everyone help themselves. This is especially great for weeknight dinners or when entertaining family and friends.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Sprinkle fresh herbs – Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Serve in individual ramekins – For a more formal presentation, divide the casserole mixture into individual ramekins before baking. Each guest will get their own mini casserole!
• Add a dollop of sour cream – A spoonful of sour cream on top of each serving can enhance the creaminess and provide a nice contrast in flavor.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead – This casserole can be prepped in advance. Assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
• Freezing instructions – If you want to freeze the casserole, prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Add extra veggies – Feel free to throw in some frozen or fresh veggies like corn, peas, or carrots to make this casserole even heartier and more nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
A: The casserole is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender, and the top is golden brown and bubbly. This usually takes about 1 hour of baking time.

Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add 10-15 minutes of extra baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I use different cheeses?
A: Definitely! Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious, cheesy, and comforting Hamburger Potato Casserole that’s sure to be a hit with the entire family. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping for a gathering, this recipe is a reliable go-to that’s both hearty and satisfying. With its simple ingredients, rich flavors, and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again. So, give it a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic casserole!

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