Description
Hearty hamburger potato casserole blends ground beef, potatoes, and creamy cheese into a comforting midwestern classic. Layers of savory ingredients meld together, creating a satisfying meal for hungry families craving home-style comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein:
- 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
Vegetables and Produce:
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Dairy and Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with onions, breaking the meat into small crumbles until no pink remains. Drain excess fat thoroughly.
- Whisk together condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and seasonings in a mixing bowl until smooth and well-combined.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Create the first layer by evenly spreading half of the sliced potatoes across the bottom of the dish, ensuring complete coverage.
- Distribute half of the seasoned beef mixture over the potato layer, creating an even distribution.
- Pour half of the creamy soup mixture across the beef layer, allowing it to seep between the ingredients.
- Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer to add richness and flavor.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese, creating a second identical layer.
- Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and prevent excessive browning.
- Bake for 1 hour, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender and the top achieves a golden-brown color.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- Customize Meat Choice swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version of the casserole.
- Reduce Sodium opt for low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese to make the dish heart-healthier.
- Boost Nutrition add diced bell peppers or spinach between layers for extra vegetables and vitamins.
- Crispy Topping sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top during the last 15 minutes of baking for a delightful crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg