Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, and festive occasions. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, this recipe has become a favorite not only as a main course but also as a beloved side dish. Its comforting blend of flavors and satisfying ingredients makes it a go-to for any meal, from Easter feasts to weekend brunches. Read on to discover more about this flavorful casserole, its origins, and how to make it a staple in your kitchen.

History of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese is a staple in various cuisines worldwide. While casseroles have European roots, similar one-dish meals incorporating meat, vegetables, and starches have been enjoyed across cultures for centuries. This particular recipe is a classic American comfort food, evolving from traditional ground meat dishes popularized in the 1950s. Originally, casseroles became a household staple due to their easy preparation, use of affordable ingredients, and ability to feed large families. Today, this cheesy variation continues the tradition with a touch of nostalgia and modern flavor.

Health Benefits

Although this dish is rich and hearty, it offers some surprising nutritional benefits:

• Ground Beef: A good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
• Potatoes: High in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
• Cheese: Provides calcium, vitamin A, and protein, essential for bone health.
• Onions: Rich in antioxidants and promote heart health.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef, crumbled
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 to 4 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (add more if desired)
• 1 can cheddar cheese soup mix
• 12 ounces evaporated milk (or whole milk)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.

Cooking Steps

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Peel and slice potatoes to about ¼-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.

Layering the Casserole

1. Layer Potatoes: Begin by placing a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the potato layer.
3. Add Beef and Cheese: Spread one-third of the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese on top.
4. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a final layer of shredded cheese on top.

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cheddar cheese soup mix, evaporated milk, and regular milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth.
2. Pour Over Casserole: Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the layered casserole.

Baking

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour.
2. Finish Uncovered: After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to brown and create a golden, crispy top layer.
3. Note: If the potatoes are thicker than ¼-inch, additional baking time may be needed.

Serving Suggestions

Formation: Serve this casserole directly from the baking dish for a rustic family-style presentation. The layers of cheese, potatoes, and ground beef make for a visually appealing dish that everyone will love.

Pairings: This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to add a complementary texture.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 15% DV

Note: Nutritional values are estimated and can vary depending on exact ingredient amounts.

Why People Love This Dish

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole has a fanbase for good reason! Its layers of creamy cheese, savory beef, and tender potatoes make it an irresistible comfort food. This dish is versatile enough to be served at special events or as an easy family dinner. With its comforting flavors and filling ingredients, it appeals to both adults and children alike.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal, preparing for a brunch, or simply craving a warm, hearty dish, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a must-try. Its delicious blend of flavors and textures will make it a new favorite for your family and friends. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved addition to your recipe collection! Enjoy every bite of this comforting, satisfying, and timeless dish.