CHEESY HAMBURGER POTATO CASSEROLE: A Hearty, Comforting Classic
Few things in life are as satisfying as a warm, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole combines tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and layers of gooey cheddar cheese to create a dish that’s both comforting and hearty. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredient Overview
Potatoes:
The foundation of this casserole, potatoes add a creamy, starchy base that soaks up all the delicious flavors. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their firm texture, which holds up well during baking. Make sure to slice them evenly to ensure they cook through.
Ground Beef:
Ground beef brings a rich, savory flavor to the dish. I recommend using lean ground beef to reduce excess grease, but you can also use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey for a lighter option. The beef is sautéed with diced onions, infusing it with sweet and savory notes that permeate the entire casserole.
Evaporated Milk:
Evaporated milk adds creaminess without being too heavy. It helps to bind the ingredients together, creating a luscious, smooth texture throughout the dish. If you don’t have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk, but the richness of evaporated milk really makes a difference.
Cheese Soup:
This canned cheese soup is the secret to the casserole’s cheesy goodness. It melts beautifully and evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with cheesy flavor. If you prefer, you can use a homemade cheese sauce or even condensed cheddar cheese soup as a substitute.
Whole Milk:
Whole milk is mixed with the evaporated milk and cheese soup to create a creamy sauce that permeates the potatoes and beef. For a lighter version, you could use 2% milk, but whole milk adds a desirable richness.
Yellow Onion:
Diced yellow onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the ground beef. As it cooks, it becomes tender and melds seamlessly with the beef, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese:
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for casseroles. Its sharp, tangy flavor complements the savory beef and creamy potatoes perfectly. You can use mild or sharp cheddar, depending on your taste preference. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a twist.
Salt and Black Pepper:
Seasoning is crucial in bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. A simple combination of salt and freshly ground black pepper does wonders in enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly from the moment it goes into the oven.
Grease the Baking Dish:
Take a 13×9-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent the potatoes and cheese from sticking to the dish, making serving and cleanup easier.
Step 2: Sauté the Meat and Onion
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, add the ground beef and diced yellow onion. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Sauté until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and Slice the Potatoes:
While the beef is cooking, peel the potatoes and cut them into ¼-inch slices. Try to keep the slices uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Layer the Potatoes:
Start by arranging a layer of potato slices evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the base of your casserole.
Season the Potatoes:
Lightly grind some salt and black pepper over the potato layer. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes.
Add the Beef Mixture:
Spoon about a third of the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle a third of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer. Cheese in every layer ensures gooey, cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layers two more times: potatoes, salt and pepper, beef mixture, and cheese, ending with a layer of shredded cheddar on top.
Step 5: Mix and Pour the Sauce
Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the evaporated milk, whole milk, and cheese soup. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Pour Over the Casserole:
Slowly pour the milk and cheese soup mixture over the assembled casserole, making sure it seeps down through the layers.
Step 6: Bake
Cover and Bake:
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
Brown the Cheese:
After an hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This step gives the cheese on top a golden-brown, bubbly finish that’s irresistible.
Serve Hot:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well as they hold their shape better and have a slightly buttery flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can add layers of vegetables like sliced carrots, peas, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk?
You can substitute evaporated milk with half-and-half or whole milk, though the casserole will be slightly less creamy.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe. Just be sure to season it well for added flavor.
How should I slice the potatoes?
Slice the potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds for even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?
Pre-shredded cheese can be used for convenience, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a superior flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, the casserole can be frozen. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy?
Using lean ground beef and draining the fat after cooking helps prevent the casserole from being greasy.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great sides to balance the richness of the casserole.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! Try mixing in cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.
Can I add more spices?
Feel free to add spices like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture for added flavor.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover the casserole with foil during the initial baking to prevent the cheese from burning, then uncover it for the last 15 minutes to brown.
Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?
You can, but the casserole may be slightly less creamy. Whole milk adds a richer texture to the dish.
What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?
A sharp knife or mandoline slicer works best for achieving uniform potato slices.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish, or use two separate dishes. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if needed.
How long should I let the casserole rest before serving?
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
What if I don’t have cheese soup?
You can make a quick cheese sauce by melting cheddar cheese with a bit of milk and butter, or use condensed cheddar cheese soup.
20 Helpful Tips
1. Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even potato slices.
2. Drain excess fat from the ground beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
3. Mix cheeses for a more complex flavor; try adding Monterey Jack or Colby.
4. Season each layer of potatoes and beef to ensure consistent flavor throughout.
5. Add vegetables like sliced carrots or peas for added nutrition.
6. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
7. Cover with foil during baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
8. Uncover for the last 15 minutes to brown the cheese on top.
9. Make ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
10. Freeze the assembled casserole before baking for a make-ahead meal.
11. Thaw overnight in the fridge if baking from frozen.
12. Reheat leftovers in the oven for the best texture.
13. Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep the casserole creamy.
14. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers.
15. Season the ground beef with additional spices like garlic powder or paprika.
16. Use lean ground beef to reduce greasiness.
17. Layer the potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
18. Use evaporated milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
19. Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of the dish.
20. Serve with a side salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
10 Storage Tips
- Cool leftovers completely before storing to avoid condensation.
- Use airtight containers to keep leftovers fresh.
- Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to ensure food safety.
- Freeze in single servings for easy reheating.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven for the best results, avoiding the microwave if possible.
- Add a little milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
20 Recipe Secrets
- Sauté the onions with the beef to infuse the meat with flavor.
- Season each layer of potatoes and beef for consistent flavor.
- Use a mandoline for perfectly even potato slices.
- Drain the ground beef well to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Add a pinch of paprika to the beef for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Mix in different cheeses for a richer, more complex taste.
- Layer thinly sliced vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives after baking for a pop of color.
- Use evaporated milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cook the beef in batches if your skillet is small to avoid overcrowding.
- Taste the sauce mixture before pouring it over the casserole to adjust seasoning.
- Let the casserole rest before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Cover with foil while baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture, or substitute with 2% for a lighter dish.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef for extra depth of flavor.
- Bake in individual ramekins for a fun, personalized serving option.
- Try using Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor and creamy texture.
- Make a double batch and freeze one for later to save time on busy nights.
- Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 520 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a true comfort food classic, perfect for feeding a hungry family. With layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to be requested again and again. Enjoy the process of making it, and don’t forget to share the love by passing this recipe along to friends and family!
