Forget Hamburger Helper When You Have This Hamburger and Potato Casserole

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole straight from the oven. This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, sure to please any crowd with its savory layers and creamy texture. Forget the boxed stuff—this homemade version is rich, satisfying, and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something delicious without too much fuss. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and combines the satisfying flavors of beef, potatoes, and cheese. Plus, it’s a perfect dish for family gatherings or potlucks.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium skillet
• Medium-sized bowl
• 11 x 7 inch (2 quart) glass baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients for Hamburger and Potato Casserole

• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (either peeled or with thin skins)
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1 can Cream of Mushroom soup
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease an 11 x 7 inch glass baking dish.
2. In a medium skillet, cook the onions and ground beef over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the milk, Cream of Mushroom soup, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the soup mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Add half of the cooked hamburger meat on top.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, soup mixture, hamburger meat, and cheese.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.

Tips for Success

To ensure your casserole is perfect every time, make sure your potato slices are thin and even. This helps them cook through evenly and quickly. Also, shredding your own cheese rather than using pre-packaged shredded cheese can give a creamier texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the soup mixture. If you’re a fan of veggies, toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions and ground beef.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking to cut down on red meat.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it cold from the fridge.

What kind of cheese works best?

A sharp cheddar works wonderfully for its flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.

Conclusion

This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a true comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you—feel free to share your experiences and any tweaks you make in the comments below!