The Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together ground beef, potatoes, and cheddar cheese in a deliciously creamy casserole. This classic family favorite is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to please both kids and adults alike. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a great choice for a satisfying meal any night of the week.
Overview of the Recipe
This casserole combines the savory flavors of ground beef and onions with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese and a cheddar cheese soup sauce. Layered with thinly sliced potatoes, this dish is baked to perfection, resulting in a golden brown, bubbly, and tender casserole that’s bursting with flavor.
History and Origin
Casseroles have long been a staple of American home cooking, particularly popular in the mid-20th century when convenience and simplicity were highly valued in the kitchen. This Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole reflects that tradition, offering a comforting and easy-to-make meal that combines familiar ingredients in a way that’s both nostalgic and delicious.
Ingredients
Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 4 pounds potatoes, peeled
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
Sauce:
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed Cheddar Cheese soup
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook Ground Beef
- Brown Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef and 1 finely diced onion. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat and set the mixture aside.
Prepare Potatoes
- Slice Potatoes: Peel and slice 4 pounds of potatoes into thin slices, less than 1/4 inch thick.
Layering
- Layer Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, create a layer of potato slices. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Top with 1/4 of the cooked ground beef mixture and 1/4 of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process three more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
Prepare Sauce
- Mix Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 can of condensed Cheddar Cheese soup, 1 can of evaporated milk, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper until smooth.
Pour and Bake
- Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the casserole is light golden brown and bubbly.
Serve
- Enjoy: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Cut into squares and serve hot.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes and beverages:
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans are a great complement.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Variations of the Recipe
To add some variety to this classic recipe, consider these delicious variations:
- Vegetable Addition: Add layers of vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture for a spicy twist.
- Different Cheese: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Health Benefits
While this casserole is an indulgent dish, it can also offer some nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Ground beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium: Cheddar cheese and milk are excellent sources of calcium, which is vital for bone health.
- Fiber: Potatoes offer dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more or less salt and pepper as preferred.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
What type of potatoes work best for this casserole?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy consistency.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake as directed when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a substitute for the Cheddar Cheese soup?
You can make a homemade cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese if you prefer not to use canned soup.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, and the top is light golden brown and bubbly.
Conclusion
The Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and versatile variations, it’s a dish that can be tailored to your taste and enjoyed by everyone. Dig into this delicious casserole and savor the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.