Description
The Hamburger Potato Casserole is a symphony of flavors, offering a comforting embrace with its combination of juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy, cheesy layers.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds of ground beef
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.75 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
3/4 cup of milk
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes. Chop the onion.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease.
Season the beef and onion mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Layering
In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange a layer of sliced potatoes.
Top the potatoes with half of the beef and onion mixture, then pour half of the soup mixture over it.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Hamburger Potato Casserole hot, ideally with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Notes
- Potato Thickness: For even cooking, ensure the potatoes are uniformly sliced. A mandoline slicer can be a great tool to achieve consistent thickness.
- Layering: To prevent the bottom layer from sticking, don’t skimp on greasing the baking dish. Layering the ingredients evenly is key to ensuring every spoonful is as delicious as the last.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese provides a classic flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese for a new taste experience. A mix of mozzarella and parmesan can offer a delightful twist.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. If baking from chilled, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
- Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave. This can actually enhance the flavors, as they meld together even more.
- Customization: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or corn to the beef layer for added nutrition and flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of freshness, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top.
Embracing these tips and notes will help you master the art of making this comforting Hamburger Potato Casserole, ensuring it comes out perfect every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!