Hamburger Potato Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable Hamburger Potato Casserole:

2.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (around 8-9 medium-sized)
2 pounds lean ground beef
1 cup sweet yellow onion, finely diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (Great Value brand is a great option)
1 cup half and half
1 tablespoon onion powder
1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
3 cups Colby Jack cheese, freshly shredded and divided

Directions

Follow these easy steps to create your Hamburger Potato Casserole:

Step 1: Thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛-inch thick) and immediately immerse them in water to prevent browning while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Step 3: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat; add the diced onions and minced garlic. Stir frequently and crumble the beef until no longer pink. Drain off any excess oil.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, half and half, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well until combined.
Step 5: Drain the potato slices. In the prepared baking dish, layer one-third of the potato slices on the bottom. Add one-third of the beef mixture and sprinkle ¾ cup of the shredded cheese. Drizzle with one-third of the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Repeat the layers two more times: potatoes, beef, cheese, and sauce.
Step 7: Finish with a final layer of potatoes and the remaining beef. Pour the remaining creamy sauce on top and finish with 1.5 cups of shredded cheese.
Step 8: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes. After this, uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Step 9: Allow the casserole to cool for 15 minutes before serving, as it will be very hot!

Pro Tips for Making Hamburger Potato Casserole

You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
Potato skins can be left on or peeled, depending on your preference.
For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or seasoning blends in your ground beef while cooking.
Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor profile.
Be mindful of your oven’s quirks; check the casserole towards the end to ensure it doesn’t overcook or burn.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can work as healthier alternatives.

2. What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using heavy cream and seasonings.

3. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Certainly! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be great additions for more nutrients and flavor.

4. How long does leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover casserole can last for 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just ensure it’s in a proper freezer-safe container or wrap. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Conclusion

Hamburger Potato Casserole is not only a delicious comfort food perfect for family dinners but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit your preferences. With layers of tender potatoes, flavorful beef, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy your homemade casserole that’s bursting with flavor and heartiness!

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