Here’s a simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole recipe for beginners, with step-by-step instructions. This dish is delicious, hearty, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (hamburger meat)
- 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works well)
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the potatoes
- Peel and thinly slice your potatoes. Try to make the slices around 1/8-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
- If you want to save some time, you can use a mandoline slicer to make even slices.
Step 3: Brown the ground beef
- In a large skillet or frying pan, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until it’s fully browned.
- Break up the meat with a spoon or spatula as it cooks.
- Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the beef and set the meat aside.
Step 4: Cook the onions
- In the same skillet, add a little bit of oil or butter, then sauté the chopped onions over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 5: Prepare the casserole mixture
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ground beef, sautéed onions, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika (optional), and a little salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Layer the casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half of the beef and soup mixture over the potatoes.
- Repeat with another layer of potatoes and the remaining beef mixture on top.
Step 7: Add cheese
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 8: Bake the casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake it in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 9: Optional topping (breadcrumbs)
- If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the casserole about 10 minutes before the casserole is done baking.
Step 10: Serve
Once it’s finished baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares and serve!
Tips:
- Vegetable Options: You can add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole if you want to pack in some extra nutrients.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, if you prefer a different flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it right before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Hamburger and Potato Casserole!
