Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Are you in search of the ultimate comfort dish that combines savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese? Look no further than this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe! It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave a hearty meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Stick around to discover the step-by-step guide and tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly golden and delicious every time!

this Recipe

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What is a Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

A Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that layers ground beef (hamburger), thinly sliced potatoes, creamy sauces, and lots of cheese to create a rich, savory casserole. The dish is baked to perfection, where the cheese becomes golden and bubbly, and the potatoes soak up all the flavors of the beef and seasonings. It’s a family favorite for good reason—it’s satisfying, flavorful, and easy to prepare with simple ingredients you probably already have at home.

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Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Before diving into the recipe, let’s look at the essential ingredients you'll need for a classic Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. This list will serve a standard 4 to 6 servings:

• 1 lb ground beef (hamburger)
• 6 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)
• Cooking spray (to grease the baking dish)

These basic ingredients are easy to find and combine to create a dish that’s flavorful and creamy, with cheesy goodness in every bite.

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Substitutions and Variations

The great thing about casseroles is their flexibility. You can adapt the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole to suit different tastes or dietary restrictions. Here are some variations and substitutions you might want to try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make the casserole lighter.
• Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a little kick.
• Vegetables: Add extra nutrients by mixing in chopped veggies like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free condensed soup if you're avoiding gluten. Make sure the soup and all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
• Healthier Options: For a lighter version, you can use low-fat sour cream and cheese, and opt for lean ground beef or turkey.
• Potato Alternatives: You can replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes or even frozen hash browns for a unique twist.

These substitutions will allow you to tailor the casserole to suit your preferences while maintaining its comforting, cheesy core.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s break down how to make this delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. Follow this guide to ensure every bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef mixture aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, peel and thinly slice the potatoes. It’s important to slice the potatoes as evenly as possible (about ⅛ inch thick) to ensure they cook evenly. You can use a mandoline for quick and precise slices, or simply a sharp knife.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. This sauce will coat the potatoes and beef, adding a rich, creamy texture to the casserole.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Now, it’s time to assemble! In your greased casserole dish, start with a layer of potato slices, followed by a portion of the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour a little of the soup mixture over the top, and sprinkle some shredded cheese. Repeat these layers (potatoes, beef, soup, cheese) until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After an hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender. Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole can be tricky if you don’t follow some essential steps. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Not slicing the potatoes evenly: Uneven slices will result in uneven cooking, with some potatoes staying undercooked while others become mushy.
• Skipping the draining of ground beef fat: This can make your casserole greasy. Always drain the fat before adding the beef to the casserole.
• Not covering the casserole while baking: If you don’t cover the casserole during the first hour, the cheese may burn before the potatoes are cooked through.
• Rushing the cooking process: Potatoes take time to cook. Ensure you bake the casserole long enough for the potatoes to become soft.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your casserole is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some serving and presentation ideas to take your meal to the next level.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Serve the casserole hot, directly from the baking dish, with a large serving spoon.
• For a balanced meal, pair it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables.
• It also goes wonderfully with a slice of garlic bread or a buttered roll on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Garnish the top of the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• Serve individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant touch if you’re hosting guests.
• Place the casserole dish on a rustic wooden board with family-style serving utensils for a cozy, homestyle vibe.

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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

To ensure your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole turns out perfect every time, here are some expert tips:

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate before baking. This makes it a great option for meal planning.
• Extra Crunch: For a crunchy topping, add crushed potato chips or bread crumbs during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes?
A: Yes! Frozen hash brown potatoes can be used as a substitute. Simply layer them like you would with sliced potatoes.

Q: How do I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: You can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or use extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for a vegetarian option.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

Q: Can I use fresh cream instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A: Yes, you can make your own creamy sauce by whisking together heavy cream with sautéed mushrooms and seasonings if you prefer a homemade touch.

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Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe! With its layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and ooey-gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this comforting casserole is sure to impress. Now, grab your ingredients and start cooking!

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