Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

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Introduction

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a cozy, budget-friendly, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheesy sauce, it brings pure comfort to your dinner table.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Casseroles have been a staple of American home cooking since the mid-20th century, valued for their convenience and ability to stretch ingredients to feed families economically. This hamburger potato version reflects classic midwestern comfort food—warm, hearty, and shared around the family table.

Ingredients & Quantities

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • 1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
  • Sliced green onions or parsley for garnish
  • Cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom
  • Mixed veggies (corn, peas, green beans) for extra nutrition
  • Paprika or smoked paprika for flavor boost
  • Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese mix

Tips for Success

  • Slice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate
  • Brown and drain the beef well to remove excess grease
  • Cover while baking to soften the potatoes fully before adding a crispy top
  • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for clean slices

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; season with salt and pepper. Drain grease.
  3. In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
  4. Layer half the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish.
  5. Add half the beef mixture on top, then half the cheese.
  6. Repeat the layers: potatoes → beef → cheese.
  7. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the entire dish.
  8. Cover tightly with foil and bake 60–75 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  9. Remove foil, add extra cheese if desired, and bake 10 minutes more until bubbly.
  10. Let sit briefly before serving and enjoy!

Description

A creamy, cheesy, layered casserole with soft, buttery potatoes and flavorful ground beef—every bite delivers comforting warmth and homestyle deliciousness.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving – 6 servings)

  • Calories: ~420
  • Protein: ~27g
  • Carbohydrates: ~28g
  • Fat: ~24g
  • Fiber: ~2g

(Values vary by exact ingredients.)

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s filling, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser—ideal for family gatherings or last-minute dinners.

Recommendation

Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance richness and make it a complete, wholesome meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Indulging in comfort food can nourish more than the body—it brings joy, connection, and warmth. Enjoy this dish mindfully, pairing it with nutritious sides and savoring every satisfying forkful.

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