Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole – A Family Favorite Dish

If you’re searching for a hearty, delicious meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table, look no further than this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and gooey cheddar cheese with tender diced potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is sure to please everyone’s palate.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This casserole is not just another dinner option; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Imagine digging into a warm, cheesy dish filled with seasoned ground beef, soft potatoes, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together. Each bite is a comforting embrace, making it a go-to recipe for those cozy evenings at home.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s something magical about casseroles—they bring back memories of family dinners and cozy nights. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a potluck, this dish is bound to be a hit.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this delicious casserole in the oven in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples and make a filling meal without fuss.

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this scrumptious casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups frozen diced potatoes
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
• 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (optional for topping)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

This list includes ingredients that provide flavor, creaminess, and a delightful cheesy texture, making this casserole a well-rounded meal in one dish.

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic casserole that everyone will love!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential step as it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden top. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you’re adding diced onion, toss it in once the beef is starting to brown. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, frozen diced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. The creamy mushroom soup acts as the perfect base, ensuring that each bite of potatoes and beef is rich and flavorful.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Once your mixture is thoroughly combined, pour it into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the potatoes and beef are well distributed throughout the dish. This will help ensure that each serving is as delicious as the last.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes. This initial baking period allows the potatoes to cook through. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This step will give your casserole that desired bubbly cheese and a slightly crispy top.

Step 6: Add Bacon Topping (Optional)

If you’re a bacon lover, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish, elevating it from delicious to unforgettable.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Now, scoop out generous portions of your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional information per serving (1 serving is approximately 1/6 of the casserole):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Sodium: 800mg

This dish is hearty and filling, making it a great option for dinner. However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium soup or adjusting the salt added during cooking.

Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, there are several sides that complement its flavors beautifully.

Delicious Side Dish Ideas

• Steamed Vegetables: Pair your casserole with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy, colorful addition to your plate.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread can be a great way to soak up the delicious sauce from the casserole.
• Side Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole and adds a refreshing crunch.

Beverage Pairings

For a refreshing drink, consider serving iced tea, lemonade, or a light soda. These beverages can cut through the richness of the casserole and provide a pleasant contrast to the flavors.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

How to Get the Perfect Cheese Melt

To ensure your cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect its melting properties.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! This casserole can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may want to cover it with foil while reheating to prevent the top from getting too crispy.

Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If baking from frozen, increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier option or dietary preference. Just make sure to season it well to enhance the flavor.

What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?

If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade white sauce. Just whisk together some flour, butter, and milk to create a creamy base.

Can I Add More Vegetables to the Casserole?

Definitely! You can add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even corn to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add more ingredients.

What’s the Best Way to Serve This Casserole?

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, alongside your favorite sides. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can also make a delightful addition to each serving.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—easy to make, delicious, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re enjoying it with family on a weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this casserole will be a favorite at your dinner table.

Don’t hesitate to try this recipe today; it’s bound to become a staple in your home. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and flavorful ground beef, this dish is comfort food at its finest!

More Recipes to Try

For more delicious dinner ideas, check out these fantastic recipes:

• Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes
• Cheesy Garlic Bacon Burger Bites
• Smoky BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Dive into the world of casseroles with this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, and watch as it becomes a beloved recipe in your household!

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