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If you are searching for a cozy, satisfying dish that brings together the flavors of hearty beef and creamy potatoes, the Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This layered casserole combines tender slices of russet potatoes with seasoned ground beef, wrapped in a luscious cheddar cheese sauce and topped with a delightful blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate and comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients that pack a big punch in taste and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. From the starchy russet potatoes to the rich cheeses and hearty ground beef, these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Provides a savory, meaty base that makes the casserole filling and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided): Enhances every layer with just the right amount of seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (divided): Adds subtle warmth and depth to the savory beef and sauce.
- 3-4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick): Their starchy texture softens beautifully during baking, absorbing the flavors around them.
- 10.5 ounce can condensed cheddar cheese soup: Makes a rich, creamy sauce base that ties all the ingredients together.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and smoothness to the cheese sauce.
- ½ cup whole milk: Lightens the sauce to the perfect consistency for layering.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle punch that complements the beef and cheese.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the flavor in the sauce with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts creamy and rich, adding sharpness and a classic cheesiness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey, stretchy texture and balances the cheddar’s boldness.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish so your delicious creation won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and ensuring those cheesy layers stay intact when served.
Step 2: Brown and Season the Ground Beef
Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, seasoning with half of your salt and black pepper. This step builds the hearty, savory base that complements the other creamy layers. Remember to drain excess grease so your casserole stays rich without becoming greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and the remaining salt and pepper to taste. Whisk it together until you get a smooth, luscious sauce that will soak the potatoes and bring the whole casserole together wonderfully.
Step 4: Layer the First Half
Arrange half of your sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Next, layer half of the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce mixture over the beef and sprinkle half of both the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. This layering technique ensures every bite will deliver all the flavors in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Finish Layering and Cheese Topping
Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining potatoes, ground beef, cheese sauce, and cheeses. This creates a thick, indulgent casserole packed with flavor and texture in every mouthful.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. This slow baking allows the potatoes to become tender and absorb the savory sauce. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the top cheese melt to bubbly, golden perfection.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, give your casserole 5 to 10 minutes to rest. This step helps it set slightly so it’s easier to serve and the flavors have time to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this hearty casserole, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of green onion can add a fresh contrast against the rich, cheesy layers.
Side Dishes
To complement the richness of the Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe, fresh steamed vegetables like green beans or a crisp garden salad work beautifully. A light vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing out the creamy heft of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to turn this comforting classic into an eye-catching centerpiece, try serving it in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also add a crunchy topping with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking for texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with foil or an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe freezes well! Assemble it fully but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen by adding extra time to ensure the potatoes cook through and the cheese melts perfectly.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes depending on portion size. You can also microwave single servings covered for quicker reheating, but the oven helps keep the cheesy topping perfectly melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this casserole?
While russet potatoes are ideal for this Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe due to their starchiness and ability to soften, Yukon Gold potatoes can be a great alternative for a creamier texture and buttery flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe lower in fat?
Yes! You can swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken and use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream. Just keep in mind that this will subtly change the flavor and creaminess but still make a tasty version.
Can I prepare this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative, and maintain the cheese and sauce as is for a hearty vegetarian casserole experience.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce mixture, or sprinkle some chopped jalapeños between the layers for a fun spicy kick without overpowering the classic flavors.
What’s the best way to ensure the potatoes cook fully?
Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly, about ¼ inch thick, so they cook at the same rate. The hour covered baking time in the Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe usually ensures tender potatoes, but if they aren’t soft after baking, adding a bit more time covered helps.
Final Thoughts
This Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is a treasured comfort meal that fills your home with warmth the moment it bakes. It’s approachable enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough for family gatherings, combining simple ingredients into a deliciously rich and cheesy feast. I can’t wait for you to make it and share it with those you love—it’s a dish that invites smiles and seconds every time!
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Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Hamburger Potato Casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, sliced russet potatoes, a creamy cheddar cheese soup mixture, and topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (divided)
Vegetables
- 3–4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick)
Dairy & Canned Goods
- 10.5 ounce can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Spices & Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.
- Cook the beef: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Season it with half of the salt and pepper while cooking. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
- Mix cheese sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and the remaining salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well mixed.
- Layer potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Assemble first layer: Spread half of the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese soup mixture over the beef, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
- Repeat layering: Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, cheese soup mixture, and shredded cheeses.
- Bake covered: Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
- Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, for even cooking.
- Using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses adds a nice balance of flavor and meltiness.
- Covering the casserole during most of the baking prevents the potatoes from drying out.
- Letting the casserole rest helps it firm up, making it easier to serve.
- Feel free to add chopped onions or bell peppers to the beef for extra flavor.
