Description
A hearty and comforting Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole featuring layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes, savory browned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a satisfying main course meal that combines simple ingredients into a delicious casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5–6 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch)
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for greasing the dish)
Other
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. Drain off excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Seasonings: Return the skillet to low heat. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Cook the mixture for about 30 seconds to release the flavors, then remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Assemble the Casserole: Start by layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Next, spread half of the cooked beef and onion mixture on top. Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over the beef, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese (and mozzarella if using) evenly.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese to build a layered casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil carefully and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and slightly crispy on top.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest outside the oven for about 5 minutes to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- To ensure even cooking, slice potatoes uniformly about 1/8 inch thick.
- Optional paprika adds mild smoky flavor and aroma.
- Adding mozzarella cheese adds extra gooeyness but can be omitted for a sharper cheddar flavor.
- Covering the casserole while baking helps trap steam and cook potatoes thoroughly.
- Resting the casserole helps it firm up for cleaner slices.
