A plate of cheesy hamburger potato casserole is like a warm hug on a cold day. Picture creamy cheese melting into perfectly cooked potatoes, mingling with seasoned ground beef that makes your taste buds dance with joy. The aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone wander in like moths to a flame.
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and love filled the air. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering of friends on game day, this casserole shines bright. Trust me; once you dig in, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one serving.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy hamburger potato casserole is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients
- Packed with rich flavors, it’s an ultimate comfort food that appeals to everyone
- The bubbling cheese creates an irresistible visual appeal that draws everyone to the table
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids practically inhaled it! Their smiles were priceless as they devoured every last bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease but still great flavor.
- Potatoes: Opt for Yukon Gold or Russets for their creamy texture when baked.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives the best flavor and meltability.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent.
- Garlic Powder: For added flavor without the need for fresh garlic chopping.
- Milk: Whole milk works best to create that creamy texture in the sauce.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and paprika elevate the flavors beautifully.
- Butter: Just a little butter enhances creaminess in the dish’s base.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onions finely so they can blend seamlessly into your casserole without anyone noticing them—smart cooking tip!
Sauté the Onions and Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and add your chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent before adding ground beef until browned completely; aroma alert!
Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add thinly sliced potatoes to the skillet along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well until everything is coated; your kitchen will smell incredible.
Create the Cheese Sauce Base: Pour in milk while continuously stirring until everything combines smoothly. Allow it all to simmer briefly before removing from heat—your taste buds are tingling now!
Layer It Up!: In a greased baking dish, add half of your beef-potato mixture first. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over it before layering on the remaining beef-potato mix followed by more cheese on top—cheese lovers rejoice!
Bake It Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly—a sight that will make anyone weak at their knees!
Enjoy this cheesy hamburger potato casserole hot from the oven with some fresh salad on the side for balance! You’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds).
You Must Know
- Cheesy hamburger potato casserole is a comfort food classic that combines savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes
- It’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd
- Plus, the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef while preheating your oven; this maximizes flavor and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or add in some veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your cheesy hamburger potato casserole doesn’t turn into a mushy mess, use waxy potatoes
- Precooking them slightly can also prevent sogginess
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning
- Lastly, let it rest before serving for better texture
The first time I made cheesy hamburger potato casserole, my friends devoured it in minutes! Their compliments were so overwhelming that I felt like a culinary rockstar that night.
FAQ
Can I make cheesy hamburger potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it beforehand and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in your favorites!
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
Cook until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheesy hamburger potato casserole is a heartwarming dish featuring layers of savory ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent. Add ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Stir in sliced potatoes, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika until well-coated.
- Pour in milk while stirring continuously; simmer briefly.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef-potato mix followed by half of the cheese. Repeat layers with remaining mixture and cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
