Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Hamburger potato casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and creamy mushroom soup in one satisfying meal. This classic casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a hungry family or a crowd. With layers of flavor and a cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Why Try Hamburger Potato Casserole

Hamburger potato casserole is a versatile and budget-friendly dish that combines simple ingredients to create a delicious and filling meal. It’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables and satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, leftovers can be enjoyed for days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Summary of Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Potatoes
• Carrots
• Frozen peas
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Layer the Casserole:
   • Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the sliced carrots and half of the frozen peas.
   • Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the vegetables in the baking dish.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, carrots, peas, and ground beef mixture.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix the condensed cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup of water until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
   • After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve:
   • Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Hamburger potato casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a heartier meal. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering.

Storage Information

Any leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.

Techniques or Tips

• For extra flavor, you can add herbs or spices to the ground beef mixture, such as thyme, rosemary, or Worcestershire sauce.
• Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking.
• Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables or cheese varieties.

Variation

You can make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of water in the mushroom soup mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add toppings like crispy bacon or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

FAQs about Hamburger Potato Casserole

Q: Can I use other vegetables in this casserole? A: Yes, feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand or prefer. Bell peppers, corn, green beans, or broccoli would all be delicious additions.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

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