If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that brings the family together, look no further than my easy hamburger potato casserole! This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser with its layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and ooey-gooey cheese that just melts in your mouth. Trust me, every bite is like a warm hug! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners when you want to keep things simple yet satisfying. Plus, you can whip it up in no time with just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand. So grab your baking dish and let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy and hearty casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want your casserole to cook evenly and get that lovely golden top!
- While the oven is heating up, grab a skillet and cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and the onion is soft—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and pepper!
- Now, let’s build our casserole! Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. This forms the base and helps absorb all that delicious flavor.
- Next, spread half of your cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. It’s already looking amazing, right?
- Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese. Just think about how cheesy and comforting this is going to be!
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth, then pour this creamy goodness over the layered casserole. It’s like a warm blanket for your dish!
- Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. This allows everything to meld together beautifully.
- After an hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Yum! Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving so it firms up a little.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and hearty: This casserole is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly nights.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a breeze to whip up.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of beef, cheese, and potatoes creates a mouthwatering dish everyone will adore.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a satisfying meal that keeps you full.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist this delicious, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Success
To make sure your easy hamburger potato casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, don’t skimp on the seasoning—season your beef while cooking and taste as you go to ensure maximum flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some garlic powder or paprika for a little extra kick!
Also, feel free to mix up the cheese! Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a fun twist. And if you want to sneak in some extra veggies, throw in some frozen peas or corn between the layers. They blend in beautifully and boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
Lastly, let that casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and makes serving easier. Trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your easy hamburger potato casserole, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! First off, try swapping out the cheese—while cheddar is delicious, a blend of mozzarella and provolone can give it a gooey texture that’s irresistible. For a little heat, go for pepper jack cheese; it adds a spicy kick that really elevates the dish!
Feeling adventurous? Toss in some veggies! Chopped bell peppers or spinach can add a vibrant touch and boost the nutrition. You might even consider layering in some cooked broccoli or zucchini for a pop of color and extra flavor. And don’t forget about spices—adding a dash of Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can take your casserole to the next level! The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your easy hamburger potato casserole is a snap! Once it’s completely cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed so it doesn’t dry out or absorb any funky fridge smells!
When you’re ready to enjoy those delicious leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to retain moisture, and heat it for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you want that cheesy top to get all bubbly again, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of heating. Wow, your kitchen will smell amazing all over again!
If you find yourself with a mountain of leftovers, you can also freeze the casserole! Just wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating as described above. Easy peasy!
Nutritional Information
This easy hamburger potato casserole is not only delicious but also provides a satisfying meal with a balanced nutritional profile. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
With a hearty mix of protein and carbs, it’s perfect for refueling after a busy day!
FAQ Section
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding some garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking. It really amps up the taste!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Definitely! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
What should I serve with my casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole for 5 Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This easy hamburger potato casserole is a comforting dish with layers of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned.
- Layer half of the potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Mix the soup and milk, then pour over the casserole.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- Can use different types of cheese if desired.
- Add vegetables like corn or peas for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: easy hamburger potato casserole
