Delicious Hamburger and Potato Casserole Recipe
Indulge in the perfect combination of flavors and textures with our Delicious Hamburger and Potato Casserole. This hearty, satisfying dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and any occasion where you crave comfort food. Follow our detailed recipe to create a mouthwatering casserole that will become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
To prepare this delectable casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by preparing the ingredients. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cooking the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Remove the skillet from heat and drain any excess fat.
3. Preparing the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This creamy sauce will add rich flavor and moisture to the casserole.
4. Assembling the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Begin by layering half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle a small amount of salt and pepper over the potatoes. Next, spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef, ensuring it covers the layer evenly. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.
5. Adding the Topping
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Evenly spread this breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer to create a crispy, golden topping.
6. Baking the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Garnishing and Serving
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
Choosing the Right Potatoes
For the best texture, we recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Their firm flesh holds up well during baking, providing the ideal balance of creaminess and structure.
Enhancing the Flavor
To elevate the flavor profile of your casserole, consider adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. These vegetables complement the beef and potatoes beautifully, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
Making It Ahead
This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and bake it the next day, following the same instructions. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Freezing for Later
To freeze the casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake it. Wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This allows you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort on hectic days.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
This comforting hamburger and potato casserole strikes the perfect balance between flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Conclusion
Our Delicious Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a must-try recipe that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. With its crispy breadcrumb topping and rich, comforting flavors, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish offers both convenience and deliciousness. Enjoy the process of creating this hearty meal, and savor every bite of the finished product.