Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melty cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to enjoy classic comfort food in a modern way.
A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Journey
Growing up, my family had a special tradition of gathering around the dinner table for hearty meals that nourished both body and soul. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother making her famous Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. The aroma of baking potatoes and bubbling cheese filled the house, making everyone feel at home. Today, I’m excited to share this cherished recipe with you, hoping it brings as much joy to your family as it did to mine.
What Makes This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Special?
This casserole is unique because it combines simple ingredients into a delicious, comforting meal. The layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes provide a perfect base, while the seasoned ground beef adds a rich, savory flavor. The gooey cheddar cheese binds everything together and creates a delightful topping that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your favorite ingredients, such as bacon or bell peppers, making it versatile for any palate.
The Full Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
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 can (10.75 oz) condensed Cheddar soup
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is no longer pink. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Drain the fat from the skillet and set the mixture aside.
- Create a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season them with salt and pepper. Then, top with 1/4 of the cooked beef mixture and 1/4 of the grated cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers three more times until all ingredients are used.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed Cheddar soup, evaporated milk, regular milk, and garlic powder until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. After that, uncover the casserole and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes, then enjoy your delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced bell peppers with the beef mixture before layering. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a spicy twist. This dish is perfect for leftovers and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner during the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed broccoli. It’s a complete meal on its own but adding sides can enhance the dining experience.
How can I make this dish healthier?
For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and use low-fat cheese and milk. Adding more vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, can also boost the nutritional value without sacrificing taste.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 95 minutes
Calories per Serving: 480
Servings: 8
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish for baking the casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed Cheddar soup
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper, then drain the fat and set aside.
- Layer sliced potatoes at the bottom of the baking dish. Season with salt and pepper, then top with 1/4 of the cooked beef mixture and 1/4 of the cheddar cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cheddar soup, evaporated milk, milk, and garlic powder until smooth. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole!