Description
Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley
Additional cheese for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Meat:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned. Drain excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds (about 1/8-inch thick).
Make the Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the ground beef mixture, and half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the layers.
Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley or additional cheese on top if desired. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
#ComfortFood #CheesyCasserole #EasyDinner
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your 9×13-inch baking dish. Brown the ground beef with diced onion in a skillet, draining the fat thoroughly. While the beef cooks, wash and thinly slice your potatoes using a sharp knife or mandoline for even cooking. Next, create the creamy sauce: melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly incorporate milk until thickened. Begin assembly by placing half the potatoes in the dish, followed by half the beef and half the cheese. Repeat the layers. Finally, pour the sauce evenly over the top, cover with foil, and bake.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides to balance its richness. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots. For a comforting diner-style meal, add a side of buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary, this Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is built in four key stages: 1) Brown seasoned ground beef and onion. 2) Thinly slice potatoes. 3) Make a creamy white sauce from butter, flour, and milk. 4) Layer ingredients (potatoes, beef, cheese) twice in a dish, top with sauce, and bake covered then uncovered until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour for thickening? For a gluten-free option, use an equal amount of cornstarch. Make a slurry by mixing it with a little cold milk before whisking it into the warmed milk.
Can I use a different type of potato? Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent choice as they hold their shape well. Russets will work but may become softer. Avoid pre-cooked or frozen hash browns, as they will alter the liquid ratio.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Is it possible to make this recipe leaner? Absolutely. Use ground turkey or a lean (90/10) ground beef. You can also substitute whole milk with 2% milk and reduce the cheese amount slightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Roux: Cooking the flour and butter for a full minute removes the raw flour taste and is crucial for proper sauce thickening.
- Potatoes Cut Too Thick: Uneven or thick potato slices will not cook through in the allotted time. Aim for consistent 1/8-inch slices.
- Not Draining the Beef: Excess grease from the beef will make the final casserole oily. Drain it well after browning.
- Forgetting the Rest Time: Letting the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Conclusion
This Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is the epitome of easy, satisfying comfort food. With its simple layers of savory beef, tender potatoes, and rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the tips to avoid common pitfalls, you’ll create a delicious, foolproof dish that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy the warmth and simplicity of this classic family dinner.