Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and cook until both the meat is browned and the onion is softened—about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the meat, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then set the meat mixture aside.

3. Prepare the Potato Layers: While the meat is cooking, peel and thinly slice the potatoes. You want the slices to be about 1/8-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. If you want to make this process quicker, you can use a mandoline slicer to get uniform slices.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will create a creamy sauce that helps bind all the layers together and makes the casserole extra comforting.

5. Layer the Casserole: In the prepared casserole dish, spread a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom. Next, evenly distribute half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour a bit of the creamy soup mixture over the beef, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Repeat the layers, starting with another layer of potatoes, followed by the remaining ground beef, soup mixture, and finishing with the rest of the shredded cheese. Make sure the top is evenly covered with cheese for that melty, cheesy goodness everyone loves.

6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

7. Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Comfort in Every Bite: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food. With tender potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s the kind of meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger and your cravings.
2. Simple and Convenient: No need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the prep time is minimal. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze!
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or even a potluck, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a versatile dish that’s sure to please a crowd. It’s filling, flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser.
4. Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe based on your preferences. Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken, use a different type of cheese, or even add in some extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole:

• Slice the Potatoes Thinly: For the best results, ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly to guarantee they cook through. If you’re in a rush, a mandoline slicer works wonders for even slices.
• Season Every Layer: Don’t forget to season each layer as you build the casserole. It’s essential to flavor both the beef and the potatoes for maximum flavor.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare it up to the point of baking, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it into the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts:

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of potatoes, ground beef, and cheese makes for a filling, satisfying meal that the entire family will love. With its creamy layers and comforting flavors, it’s perfect for busy nights or any occasion that calls for a hearty dish. Try it out the next time you’re craving something simple, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying!