Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Are you craving a warm, hearty meal that brings the whole family to the table? Look no further than this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole. With its creamy layers of tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is the definition of comfort food. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, this casserole combines the ease of preparation with the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples to create something truly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen.
Quick Prep: Minimal prep time means you can spend more time with family.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep for the week.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to your preferences or what you have on hand.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
Main Ingredients
Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides a savory, protein-rich base for the casserole. For extra flavor, use 80/20 ground beef.
Russet Potatoes (4 medium): Their starchy texture absorbs the creamy sauce, creating soft, flavorful layers.
Yellow Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
For the Creamy Sauce
Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can): The ultimate shortcut for a creamy, rich sauce.
Whole Milk (1 cup): Ensures a smooth, pourable consistency while enhancing the creamy texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, divided): Melts into gooey perfection, creating that iconic cheesy layer.
Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and prevents sticking when sautéing onions.
Seasonings
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor.
Smoked Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smoky touch that complements the beef.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes).
Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Slice the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds (about ⅛-inch thick). A mandoline slicer works well for uniform slices.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the potato slices evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread half of the cooked ground beef on top, followed by half of the sautéed onions.
Pour half of the cream of mushroom soup mixture (soup + milk whisked together) over the layers.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the last cup of cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Pro Tips for Success
Thinly Slice Potatoes: Thin slices ensure even cooking and tender layers.
Drain Beef Properly: Excess grease can make the casserole too oily.
Test for Doneness: Insert a fork into the potatoes to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Add Veggies: Toss in frozen peas or green beans for extra nutrition.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this Hamburger Potato Casserole with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a well-rounded meal. For extra indulgence, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce.
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Conclusion: Why This Recipe Will Be Your Go-To
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is everything you want in a comfort meal: simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With its creamy layers and savory ingredients, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole
checks all the boxes.
Ready to make dinner a breeze? Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
