This Hippity Hoppity Hamburger Cheese And Potato Casserole Don’t Stop!
An Unforgettable Family Dinner: Hippity Hoppity Hamburger Cheese And Potato Casserole Don’t Stop!
When it’s dinner time, my family is always starving. After a long day at work and school, my husband and kids look forward to sitting down at the dinner table and enjoying whatever I have prepared for them. That’s why I always make sure my meals are wholesome, hearty, and ready to nourish their hungry bellies.
I have made this hamburger potato casserole a time or two, and each time my family goes nuts over it. It’s very filling and tastes great! Hamburger potato casserole is easy to throw together and only takes about 20 minutes or so to prep. Basically, it’s a wholesome meal that fills everyone’s bellies without keeping you in the kitchen slaving away all day. It also makes wonderful leftovers and reheats well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is the perfect blend of savory flavors and creamy textures. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a hearty dish that satisfies everyone at the table and can easily be reheated for delicious leftovers.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 2 1/2 quart covered casserole dish
- Non-stick baking dish (optional)
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
- 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced about 1/4-1/2 inch thick
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped onions
- 1 lb ground beef (really lean is preferable)
- Salt and pepper
- Cheese sauce (the same one I use for macaroni and cheese)
- 2 cups milk (I use skim)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Ketchup (optional condiment)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the hamburger and onion in a pan.
- In your casserole dish, place a layer of sliced potatoes and top with half of the hamburger/onion mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Repeat the layering of potato slices and hamburger mixture. Add more salt and pepper if desired.
- To make the cheese sauce, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add 3 tablespoons of flour, salt, and pepper to the melted butter. Stir quickly to blend.
- Slowly add 2 cups of milk while stirring with a whisk to incorporate the butter/flour mixture.
- Reduce the heat and continue to stir until the sauce is thickened and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts completely.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the hamburger and potatoes in the baking dish. Gently push the potatoes around to ensure the sauce reaches all areas.
- Cover the dish and bake in the oven for about 1 1/2 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is browned. For a crispier top, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of baking.
- If there are small pools of grease on top, simply spoon them off. This doesn’t mean the whole dish is greasy—it’s just cheesy goodness!
- Many of my family members enjoy adding generous amounts of ketchup on top, though it’s delicious on its own, perhaps with a spot of ketchup on the side.
Tips for Success
Ensure your potatoes are sliced evenly for even cooking. If you prefer a healthier version, opt for lean ground beef and skim milk. Make sure the cheese sauce is thick and creamy before pouring it over the casserole for the best results.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. You can also switch up the cheese to suit your taste—try mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack for a different twist!
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While nutritional values vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used, this dish is a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the ground beef and cheddar cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
This Hippity Hoppity Hamburger Cheese And Potato Casserole Don’t Stop is a go-to family favorite that never disappoints. It’s easy to make, filling, and utterly delicious. I invite you to try this recipe for yourself and share your experiences with us. Enjoy a cozy family meal and savor every cheesy, hearty bite!
