Cheesy Hamburger and Potato Casserole

Who doesn’t love a warm, cheesy, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven? The comforting scent, the melty cheese, and the delicious mix of ingredients make casseroles a go-to for many families. Today, we’re diving into the cheesy, savory delight that is the Cheesy Hamburger and Potato Casserole.

This dish combines hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and ooey-gooey cheese into one satisfying meal. No matter where you are, it’s the type of dish that makes you feel like you’re at home.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 (10.75 oz) can of condensed Cheddar soup
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• To taste, add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Step-By-Step Instructions:

STEP 1. Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Set aside.

STEP 2. In a large skillet, add ground beef and onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the meat is no longer pink. Drain fat and set aside.

STEP 3. Arrange a single layer of potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.

STEP 4. Season with salt and pepper. Top with 1/4 of the beef mixture and 1/4 of the cheddar cheese.

STEP 5. Repeat layers three more times.

STEP 6. Whisk together cheddar soup, evaporated milk, milk, and garlic powder until smooth in a small bowl.

STEP 7. Pour the ingredients into the baking dish.

STEP 8. Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes.

STEP 9. Uncover and bake until the top is golden brown and bubbly, 15 minutes more. Enjoy!

Variations of the Recipe

Adding Vegetables

Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and color. Simply mix them in with the ground beef before layering.

Using Different Meats or Cheeses

Experiment with different meats like sausage, ground chicken, or even bacon for a twist. Try using a cheese blend or a different type of cheese for a unique flavor.

Healthier Alternatives

Low-Fat Cheese Options

Opt for low-fat cheddar or a cheese alternative to reduce the fat content. You can also use reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup.

Substituting Ingredients for a Lighter Version

Swap out the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and added nutrients. To reduce the fat content, substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken.

FAQs:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Get the casserole ready for baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Once you’re ready to eat, bake as instructed.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely. Before baking, assemble the casserole and freeze it. Before baking as directed, thaw overnight in the fridge.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using milk, flour, and butter.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use sweet.