Description
This hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole combines tender ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy mushroom sauce topped with sharp cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, it offers a comforting and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced to 1/8 inch using a mandolin
Seasonings and Dairy
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prep the oven and dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13” casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the beef mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat once done to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Season the beef: Stir in salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to allow the seasonings to meld, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the casserole layers: Place one-third of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the casserole dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, the remaining beef, and ½ cup cheese.
- Top with final layers and sauce: Add the last third of the potato slices on top, pour the creamy mushroom mixture evenly over the entire casserole, and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Bake uncovered for browning: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden to achieve a perfect crust.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- Using thinly sliced potatoes ensures even cooking and tender texture.
- Sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess to the casserole.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Feel free to substitute sharp cheddar cheese with your preferred cheese, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking—adjust baking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
