Introduction
Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. This delicious casserole combines ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and a variety of flavorful ingredients to create a satisfying one-pan meal. Whether you are looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
The beauty of this casserole is its versatility; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding different seasonings, vegetables, or toppings. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy potato topping, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this mouthwatering Hamburger and Potato Casserole.
Ingredients
To prepare the Hamburger and Potato Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 pound of ground beef
2. 4 cups of potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
3. 1 onion, chopped
4. 2 cloves of garlic, minced
5. 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
6. 1 cup of milk
7. 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
8. Salt and pepper to taste
9. Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying casserole that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until well combined.
5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Spread the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, then pour half of the soup mixture on top.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, soup mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize the Hamburger and Potato Casserole to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
1. Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
2. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
3. Substitute sweet potatoes or cauliflower for the traditional white potatoes for a healthier alternative.
4. Top the casserole with crispy bacon bits or French fried onions for added crunch.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Hamburger and Potato Casserole:
1. Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly.
2. Season each layer generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the casserole.
3. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together before serving.
4. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. With its layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe is a great option for any occasion.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.
Q: How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.
Hamburger and Potato Casserole
A hearty and comforting one-pan meal featuring layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. This versatile casserole is perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup milk
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until onion is soft.
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Mix cream of mushroom soup and milk in a small bowl.
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Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, season with salt and pepper.
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Spread the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, then pour half of the soup mixture on top.
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Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, soup mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.
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Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
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Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
