Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole! This dish features layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy, savory sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings and stands out for its rich flavors and heartiness.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This casserole is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting meals.

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for weeknight cooking.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness and meaty flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it with your favorite cheeses or additional spices.
• Hearty Meal: This dish is filling, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties or potlucks.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy delicious leftovers that reheat well for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for holding all the layers evenly without overflowing.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning ground beef quickly while providing enough space to mix in onions.
• Whisk: Essential for smoothly combining the sauce ingredients without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced

For the Potatoes

• 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch pieces

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cheddar soup
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Seasoning

• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook the ground beef along with diced onion.
2. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Break up the beef as it cooks until browned and no longer pink.
4. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish:
1. Layer sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add ¼ of the cooked beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
4. Follow with ¼ of grated cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat these layers three more times until all ingredients are used.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together condensed cheddar soup, evaporated milk, milk, and garlic powder until smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Pour the prepared sauce evenly over your layered ingredients:
1. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 60 minutes.
3. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

After removing from the oven:
1. Let rest for a few minutes to allow layers to set before serving.
2. Enjoy this comforting casserole warm!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Serving Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The rich flavors of Caesar dressing and croutons complement the casserole’s cheesiness perfectly.

Add Some Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: This healthy side adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.

Include Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls can be served warm on the side for an extra touch of comfort.

How to Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

To ensure your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and quality ground beef will enhance the overall taste.
• Layer Evenly: Make sure to distribute the potatoes, beef, and cheese evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for maximum flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps set the layers for easier serving.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends for unique flavors; Monterey Jack works wonderfully too!
• Store Leftovers Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to three days.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

When serving Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with its hearty nature.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds brightness and texture to your meal.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory casserole beautifully; grill or boil it for best results.
3. Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans create a satisfying combination with the casserole’s richness.
4. Mixed Vegetables: A medley of steamed vegetables provides color and nutrition while balancing the dish’s heaviness.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that enhances the meal experience.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: This light salad provides a refreshing palate cleanse between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season each layer can result in bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper to the potatoes and beef for a tasty dish.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If you cram too many ingredients into the dish, it may not cook evenly. Stick to the recommended size of a 9×13-inch baking dish for best results.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving so layers set.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ground beef or milk can impact cooking time and texture. Ensure these ingredients are at room temperature before use.
• Neglecting leftovers storage: Leaving food out instead of refrigerating can lead to spoilage. Store leftovers promptly in an airtight container.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of water or milk to prevent sticking while reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty dish made with layers of seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, melted cheese, and creamy sauce. It’s perfect comfort food!

How long does Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize my Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! You can swap out cheddar cheese for other cheese types or add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole good for meal prep?

Yes! This casserole stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers during the week.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses or veggies based on your preferences. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings, sure to please even the pickiest eaters!