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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining creamy sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, and sharp melted cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Ideal for family dinners or easy weeknight meals, this casserole is simple to prepare with pantry staples and customizable with various add-ins to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 45 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika or Italian herbs (optional)

Optional Variations

  • Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach (for vegetable boost)
  • Chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
  • Cauliflower florets (as low-carb potato substitute)
  • Ground turkey or chicken (as alternative protein)
  • Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese (cheese blend alternative)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes thinly to ensure even cooking and proper absorption of creamy flavors during baking.
  2. Cook the hamburger and onions: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef while breaking it apart. Then add the diced onions and garlic powder. Cook until the onions are translucent and the meat is fully cooked, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the casserole: Lightly grease a baking dish with butter. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly, sprinkle some salt and pepper, then add the cooked hamburger mixture on top. Cover with the remaining sliced potatoes.
  4. Add milk and butter: Pour the milk evenly over the layered ingredients, then dot the top with small pieces of butter to help achieve creamy, even baking.
  5. Bake and add cheese: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top, then bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
  6. Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and make it easier to serve.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes uniformly for consistent cooking and texture.
  • Drain excess fat from cooked ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Season each layer of potatoes lightly for deeper flavor.
  • Keep casserole covered during most of baking to retain moisture and ensure tender potatoes.
  • Use fresh, sharp cheddar cheese for better melting and richer taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, potato casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, baked casserole