Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together the comforting flavors of ground beef, potatoes, and a medley of savory ingredients. This casserole is a one-dish wonder, combining elements of a classic hamburger with the heartiness of potatoes in a baked ensemble.
The recipe typically starts with browning ground beef, infusing it with aromatic onions and garlic to create a flavorful base. This savory mixture is then combined with diced or sliced potatoes, creating a robust and filling foundation for the casserole. The potatoes absorb the rich flavors of the seasoned meat, providing a satisfying and comforting texture.
To enhance the creaminess of the casserole, a velvety sauce is often prepared. This sauce can include ingredients such as condensed soup (commonly mushroom or celery), sour cream, and shredded cheese. The creamy mixture is then incorporated with the beef and potato layers, ensuring a luscious consistency throughout.
The casserole is assembled in a baking dish, and the ingredients are layered to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Once assembled, it is baked to perfection, allowing the potatoes to soften and absorb the savory juices from the meat and the creamy sauce. This baking process also results in a golden-brown crust on top, adding an appealing texture to the dish.
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a versatile recipe, often allowing for customization based on personal preferences. Additional ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, or spices can be included to tailor the dish to individual tastes.
This comforting casserole is a favorite for family dinners and gatherings, offering a complete and satisfying meal in a single dish. The amalgamation of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce makes this dish a go-to comfort food, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings or bringing people together around the dinner table.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds of ground beef
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
3/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Layer half in the baking dish.
Add a layer of potato slices and half the cheese. Repeat with remaining beef, potatoes, and another layer of cheese.
Mix condensed soup and milk; pour over casserole.
Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Uncover, add remaining cheese, and bake until bubbly and potatoes are tender.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Variations & Tips:
Add green peas or corn for extra veggies.
For a crunch, top with buttery breadcrumbs.
Try different cheese combinations like gruyere and mozzarella.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day.
Feel free to experiment with this recipe to make it uniquely yours. Embrace the heartwarming essence of this Hamburger Potato Casserole and let it bring joy and comfort to your dining table. Happy cooking!