As autumn arrives, nothing beats the smell of a warm casserole in the oven. For us, the Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a cherished tradition. It brings us together, sharing the tastes of our heritage.
This dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food, great for weeknights or weekends. It’s quick to prepare, with only 10 minutes needed, and cooks in 1 hour and 30 minutes. This casserole is a flavor-packed time-saver.
Key Takeaways
- Hearty casserole made with ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheese
- Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy weekend gatherings
- Prep time of 10 minutes and total cooking time of 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Yields 8 servings, with 331 calories, 28g protein, and 15g fat per serving
- Creamy sauce made with cheddar soup and evaporated milk
The Story Behind Our Favorite Comfort Casserole
This Hamburger Potato Casserole has been a treasured family recipe for many years. It’s a classic comfort food that brings back warm memories of cozy homemade casserole nights. It also reminds us of nostalgic cooking with our loved ones.
A Tradition of Family Gatherings
The recipe has been passed down through our family. It’s often made in an old, trusty blue dish. This dish has seen many meals shared together.
Whether it was for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole was always there. It brought us together with its comforting flavors and familiar smell.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Hamburger Potato Casserole is special because it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a hearty dish that’s great for family meals or busy weeknights. The mix of seasoned ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese makes it creamy and delicious.
The secret to its flavor is the cheddar soup and evaporated milk. They make it velvety and comforting. This homemade casserole is a staple in our home. It’s loved for its taste and the memories it brings.
“This casserole is the ultimate comfort food – it’s a dish that just makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.”
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole
To make a tasty Hamburger Potato Casserole, you need the right ingredients. The main parts that make this dish loved by many include:
- 1.5 pounds of ground beef
- 1 diced yellow onion
- 4 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese
- 10.75 oz can of condensed cheddar soup
- 12 oz can of evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
The recipe uses 2% milk, but you can use any milk you have. Russet potatoes are best because they make the sauce thicker. The mix of cheddar cheese, condensed soup, and evaporated milk makes a creamy sauce that holds everything together.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1.5 lbs | $6.85 |
| Russet Potatoes | 4 lbs | $2.97 |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups | $2.50 |
| Condensed Soup | 10.75 oz | $1.25 |
| Evaporated Milk | 12 oz | $1.13 |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | $0.25 |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 tsp | $0.05 |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | $0.05 |
| Total | $11.70 |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a comforting and tasty Hamburger Potato Casserole. It’s sure to be a hit with your family.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole is a fun journey. Start by heating your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Let’s start the casserole assembly!
Preparing the Base
Begin by browning the ground beef with onions and seasoning it well. Once it’s cooked, layer the base of our casserole. Place a layer of thin russet potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
Layering Technique
- Next, add a layer of seasoned ground beef.
- Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
- Keep repeating these layers for a tasty stack.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
In another bowl, mix the creamy parts: cheddar soup, evaporated milk, regular milk, and garlic powder. This sauce will cover the layers, making the dish delicious and cohesive.
Now, our base, layers, and sauce are ready. Bake the Hamburger Potato Casserole until it’s golden. Cover it with foil for 60 minutes, then remove it for 15 more minutes to brown the top.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Golden Crust
Getting a golden, crispy crust on your hamburger potato casserole is key. It makes this comforting dish even better. By using a few baking techniques, you can get a crunchy top and soft, tasty potatoes and beef below.
Start by covering the casserole with aluminum foil for the first 60 minutes. This keeps the steam in, helping the potatoes cook well before the crust browns. Then, take off the foil for the last 15 minutes. This lets the cheese and breadcrumbs (if you’re using them) melt and get golden and crispy.
It’s also crucial to spread the ingredients evenly when you layer your casserole. This ensures everything cooks well and avoids soggy or undercooked spots. Make sure to layer the ground beef, potato slices, and cheese evenly across the dish.
Lastly, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the crust set, making it easier to serve without the layers falling apart. With these tips, you’ll get a perfectly golden crust every time.
“The secret to a crispy casserole crust is all in the baking techniques. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious, but visually stunning as well.”
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa is a hit. To enjoy it again and again, proper storage and make-ahead prep are crucial. Let’s look at the best ways to store leftovers and prepare the casserole ahead of time for convenience.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Once the casserole cools down, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This way, you can relish its comforting flavors all week long.
Freezing Methods
For longer storage, our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to avoid freezer burn. It stays delicious for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy leftovers or a frozen casserole, cover it and bake in a preheated oven until hot. If frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best taste.
By following these tips, you can easily leftovers storage, freeze casserole, and reheating instructions for our Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa. This ensures you can enjoy this comforting dish whenever you want.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Our easy hamburger potato casserole is super versatile. You can make it fit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. Check out these casserole variations to explore.
Want a healthier version? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This makes it leaner but still tasty. For those on dairy-free diets, use plant-based cheese and milk like almond or oat milk.
Try different cheeses to change the flavor. Mozzarella or pepper jack can add a fun twist. A mix of cheeses brings out complex tastes. Add diced bell peppers or corn for color and more dietary adaptations.
| Ingredient Substitution | Dietary Consideration |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey or Chicken | Lighter Protein Option |
| Plant-Based Cheese and Milk | Dairy-Free |
| Mozzarella or Pepper Jack Cheese | Flavor Variation |
| Bell Peppers or Corn | Vegetable Addition |
This casserole recipe lets you be creative with ingredient substitutions. It’s perfect for making it healthier or trying new flavors. The options are endless for customizing this comforting dish.
Conclusion
The Hamburger Potato Casserole is a favorite in many homes. It’s filled with ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. This dish is perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck.
This casserole is loved for its easy recipe and flexibility. You can change it up to fit your taste. Try different cheeses or add veggies to make it your own.
When we sit down to eat, this casserole brings back happy memories. It’s a true comfort food that warms our hearts. So, make it for a cozy dinner or a big family event. It’s sure to be a hit, bringing joy and warmth to everyone.
FAQ
What is the Hamburger Potato Casserole?
The Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting dish. It combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. It’s a hearty meal with layers of savory beef, potatoes, and gooey cheddar, great for busy weeknights.
What are the key ingredients in the casserole?
The main ingredients are 1.5 pounds of ground beef, 1 diced yellow onion, and 4 pounds of russet potatoes. You’ll also need 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese, 10.75 oz can of condensed cheddar soup, and 12 oz can of evaporated milk. Add 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper.
How long does it take to prepare and cook the casserole?
It takes 10 minutes to prepare and 1 hour and 30 minutes to cook. The casserole serves 10 people. Each serving has 331 calories, 28g protein, and 15g fat.
What makes this casserole recipe a family tradition?
This casserole has been a family tradition for years. It’s often made in an old, trusty blue dish. It’s a dish that brings back memories of home cooking, especially during tough times.
How do you achieve the perfect golden crust on the casserole?
To get a perfect golden crust, cover the casserole with foil for the first 60 minutes. This traps steam, cooking the potatoes well. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to brown the top.
How can the Hamburger Potato Casserole be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it baked or unbaked for up to 2 months. To reheat, cover and bake until warm. If frozen, thaw first for best results.
What are some variations and substitutions for the recipe?
Try substituting ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based cheese and milk substitutes. Add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor.
