Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add chopped onion, garlic powder, and paprika, cooking until the onions are soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain any excess fat, and set the beef mixture aside.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
- First Layer: Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes along the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Add Beef: Spoon half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top of the beef.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of potatoes and top with the remaining beef and cheese.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and cream of mushroom soup until smooth.
- Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered casserole, allowing it to seep through and coat the potatoes.
Step 5: Top and Bake
- For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the casserole before baking.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing to help it set.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Thinly Slice Potatoes: To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes as thin as possible or use a mandoline slicer.
- Add Veggies: For a complete meal, toss in diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots to add extra nutrition and color.
- Season Well: Ground beef and potatoes benefit from generous seasoning, so be sure to taste and adjust before layering.
Why This Casserole is a Crowd-Pleaser
This hamburger potato casserole combines tender, hearty potatoes with the satisfying flavor of seasoned beef, all topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce that melds everything together. It’s the ideal blend of savory flavors and textures that makes each bite satisfying. Plus, the versatility of this casserole means you can adapt it with different cheeses or add-ins to suit your family’s tastes.
Conclusion
With simple ingredients, easy steps, and a crowd-pleasing taste, this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is bound to become a staple in your household. It’s comforting, filling, and a breeze to put together, making it perfect for busy nights or whenever you need a meal that everyone will love. Serve it up with a side salad or steamed veggies, and you’ve got a complete, comforting dinner on the table!
