As the sun sets, the kitchen fills with the cozy smell of a homemade hamburger and potato casserole. This quick and easy recipe is a favorite, blending classic comfort food into every bite.
My mom made this dish on cold autumn nights. The home was filled with the savory smell of potatoes, ground beef recipes, and melted cheddar. It was a feast for our taste buds and a warm hug for our souls.
Key Takeaways
- A budget-friendly, hearty entries dinner that can be prepared in 45 minutes
- Features layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese
- Yields 10 servings, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings
- Rich in protein and essential nutrients to nourish your body
- A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to warm your soul on a chilly evening
The Story Behind This Comfort Food Classic
The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a beloved comfort food. It comes from family traditions and home-cooked meals. It brings back memories of family one-dish dinners, passed down through generations.
For many, it reminds them of their mother’s or grandmother’s cooking. It was a comforting meal during tough times. The recipe has become a staple in many kitchens, offering a sense of familiarity and nostalgia.
“This casserole always takes me back to my childhood, sitting around the dinner table with my family. It’s a true comfort food classic that brings people together.”
The dish combines savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese. It’s satisfying and versatile. Whether for a family meal or a potluck, this comfort food casserole is a favorite.
As generations go by, the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole remains special. It shows the lasting impact of family meals and comfort food classics.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Casserole
To make the ultimate [ground beef recipes], picking the right ingredients is key. For this [potato bakes] dish, you’ll need 1.5 pounds of flavorful [ground beef], 4 pounds of starchy [russet potatoes], 2 cups of tangy [cheddar cheese], and creamy dairy.
Ground Beef and Seasonings
The [ground beef] is the heart of this [casserole dishes] dish. It’s seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to boost its flavor.
Potato Selection and Preparation
Russet potatoes are best for this [potato bakes] recipe. They make the dish creamy. Peel and slice them evenly for even cooking.
Cheese and Dairy Components
The dish’s creaminess comes from [cheddar cheese], [cheddar soup], and [evaporated milk]. The sharp [cheddar cheese] flavor goes well with the rich sauce.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| [Ground Beef] | 1.5 pounds |
| [Russet Potatoes], peeled and sliced | 4 pounds |
| [Cheddar Cheese], grated | 2 cups |
| Condensed [Cheddar Soup] | 1 can |
| [Evaporated Milk] | 1 can |
| Regular Milk | 1 cup |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a [potato bakes] masterpiece. It will satisfy any appetite. For more tips and variations, check out Sofie Recipes.
Why This Hamburger and Potato Casserole Works
This hamburger and potato casserole is a favorite for many families. It has layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. The creamy sauce, made with cheddar soup and evaporated milk, adds a rich texture.
This casserole is loved for its flexibility. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a big gathering. Its simple ingredients and easy prep make it a beloved comfort food.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Percentage of people who make the hamburger and potato casserole recipe about once a week | 100% |
| Percentage of people who prefer using lean ground beef for the casserole | 100% |
| Average cooking time for browning beef and onions | 5 minutes |
| Recommended baking temperature for the casserole | 350ºF |
| Cooking time for the casserole in the oven | 1 hour |
| Additional baking time after adding cheese to the casserole | 20 minutes |
| Recommended cooling time before serving the casserole | 15 minutes |
| Number of recommended servings | 1 serving |
The recipe’s simplicity and comfort make it a favorite family meal. It’s great for a big entrée or a comforting dish to make ahead. This hamburger and potato casserole is sure to please.
“This casserole is a staple in our household. It’s easy to prepare, and the whole family loves it. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.”
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a tasty hamburger and potato casserole is simple. Just follow these steps to make a dish that’s great for weeknights or to prepare ahead. It’s comforting and full of flavor.
Preparing the Base Layers : hamburger and potato casserole
First, heat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Cook 2 pounds of lean ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks. Add diced onions and your favorite spices and herbs.
Next, slice 2.5 pounds of Yukon gold potatoes into thin rounds. Put a layer of potatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, add the cooked beef mixture and ¾ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Now, mix a 10.75-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup of 2% milk, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in a bowl. Whisk until it’s smooth. Pour this sauce over the layers in the dish.
Baking Tips and Techniques
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 15-20 more minutes. This will make the top golden and the cheese bubbly. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving.
This casserole is a hit with families. Serve it with light vegetable sides like garlic-roasted broccoli for a full meal.
Time-Saving Tips and Shortcuts
For quick weeknight meals, a make-ahead casseroles like the Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a game-changer. Here are some tips to make prep work faster:
- Use pre-sliced or canned potatoes instead of peeling and chopping raw potatoes. This saves a lot of time.
- Start with the pre-cooked potatoes, then add seasoned ground beef and raw onions. The potatoes soak up the flavors as it bakes.
- Make the creamy mushroom sauce ahead of time and chill it until you’re ready. This lets the flavors mix and saves prep time.
- Before baking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Since most ingredients are cooked, it bakes in about 30 minutes.
These shortcuts help you whip up a tasty Hamburger and Potato Casserole with little effort. It’s perfect for a easy weeknight meal. Plus, you can freeze it for later, offering a quick, comforting meal whenever you want.
Nutritional Information and Portion Sizing
This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a nutritional powerhouse. Each 8-ounce serving has 331 calories. It also has 18g of carbs, 28g of protein, and 15g of fat, with 7g of saturated fat. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals like 175IU of Vitamin A, 12.1mg of Vitamin C, 171mg of Calcium, and 6mg of Iron.
The casserole has 78mg of cholesterol and 624mg of sodium per serving. But it’s also a good source of fiber and sugar, making it a balanced choice for families.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 331 |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 78mg |
| Sodium | 624mg |
| Potassium | 868mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
This recipe makes 10 servings, perfect for big family meals or parties. Its large portions and nutrient-rich ingredients make it a great choice for your family’s meals.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
This make-ahead casserole is super versatile. You can store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Or, freeze it for up to two months. Just wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
To reheat, the oven is best. Cover the dish with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes. It should reach 165°F (74°C) inside. This keeps your family meals tasty and fresh, even when reheated.
This make-ahead casserole is great for meal prep. It lets you enjoy tasty meals without daily cooking. You can relax and spend more time with your family.
“The ability to store and reheat this casserole with ease is a game-changer for busy families. It’s the perfect solution for enjoying a home-cooked meal without the time commitment.”
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Creating the perfect ground beef casserole is a fun adventure. You can try new flavors or make it fit different diets. This classic dish is great for getting creative.
Meat Alternatives
Want a lighter version? Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These options are leaner but still pack a lot of taste.
Cheese Options
Try different cheeses to find your favorite. Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix. For a dairy-free choice, use plant-based cheese that melts well.
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
- Keto-friendly: Replace potatoes with riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
- Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and use lentils or sautéed mushrooms instead.
With a few tweaks, you can make this casserole fit your diet. It ensures everyone can enjoy its comforting taste.
Pairing Suggestions and Side Dishes
This hearty hamburger and potato casserole is perfect for family meals. It’s even better with the right side dishes. Try it with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies to balance the creamy casserole.
Crusty bread or garlic rolls are great too. They soak up the savory sauce, adding to the comfort food feel.
For a richer meal, add cheese-topped biscuits or garlic bread. The melted cheese and toasted bread contrast nicely with the creamy casserole. It makes for a satisfying meal.
For drinks, a Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay can enhance the dish’s flavors. They add a sophisticated touch to your family meals.
| Side Dish | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed Green Salad | 55 | 0 | 4 | 1 |
| Steamed Broccoli | 55 | 0 | 11 | 3 |
| Garlic Bread | 492 | 38 | 51 | 12 |
| Cheddar Biscuits | 278 | 16 | 27 | 6 |
The casserole’s versatility is its greatest strength. Try different side dishes to please your family’s tastes and dietary needs. This ensures a fulfilling family meal experience.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect casserole is a fun challenge, but even experts can make mistakes. Avoid these common errors to make sure your casseroles are perfect every time. This is key for quick and tasty meals on weeknights.
One big mistake is not cooking the potatoes enough. Make sure to slice them thin so they cook evenly. Also, season each layer well to spread the flavor evenly.
Another mistake is baking the casserole too long. This can make it dry and unappetizing. Keep an eye on the time and don’t overdo it. Let the casserole rest before serving to let the flavors meld.
Lastly, not cooling and storing leftovers properly can be unsafe. Always cool the casserole completely before refrigerating any leftovers. By following these tips, you’ll become a pro at making casserole dishes and delicious easy weeknight meals your family will enjoy.
| Mistake | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Undercooking potatoes | Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking |
| Skipping seasoning between layers | Season each layer thoroughly for optimal flavor |
| Overbaking the casserole | Monitor cooking time closely to avoid dryness |
| Improper cooling before storage | Allow casserole to cool completely before refrigerating |
Conclusion
In Conclusion : The Cheesy Hamburger potato bakes casserole is more than a meal; it’s a comfort that unites families. It’s easy to make and tastes great, making it a favorite in many homes. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a big gathering, offering both flavor and convenience.
This hamburger and potato casserole is a treat from start to finish. The ground beef and potatoes are cooked just right, and the cheesy top adds a creamy touch. It’s a comfort food classic that’s easy to make and always a hit.
Give the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole a try and see how it brings people together. Its delicious flavors and ease of making make it a standout dish in any home. It’s sure to become a beloved favorite for your family.
FAQ
What is the key ingredient in this casserole?
Ground beef and russet potatoes are the main ingredients. They make the dish hearty and comforting.
How long does it take to prepare and bake this casserole?
It takes 45 minutes to prepare and 75 minutes to bake. It’s a quick and affordable dinner choice.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 10 servings. It’s great for big families or parties.
Is this casserole versatile and suitable for various occasions?
Yes, it’s perfect for many events. It’s great for feeding a crowd or making meals ahead of time.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it baked or unbaked for up to two months. It’s perfect for meal prep or busy weeks.
What are some variations or substitutions for this recipe?
Try using turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add different cheeses or veggies like bell peppers or corn.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making this casserole?
Don’t undercook the potatoes or skip seasoning. Also, avoid overbaking to keep the texture and flavor right.
Why is it called a John Wayne casserole?
The John Wayne casserole is named after the legendary actor John Wayne. The recipe first appeared in a 1979 charity cookbook to which Wayne contributed. It’s a hearty, layered dish typically made with ground beef, biscuits, vegetables, and cheese—reminiscent of cowboy-style meals and fitting for the rugged persona Wayne embodied in his films.
Do you cook potatoes or meat first?
It depends on the recipe:
- For casseroles: Cook meat first to ensure it’s fully browned and safe to eat. If using raw potatoes, they can often be added uncooked as they’ll cook during baking.
- One-pan meals: If cooking meat and potatoes together, start with the meat to brown it, then add potatoes as they require less cooking time.
Do you cook meat before putting it in a casserole?
Yes, you typically cook meat before adding it to a casserole. Pre-cooking ensures:
- The meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- It releases excess fat or moisture, preventing the casserole from becoming greasy or watery.
Exceptions may include recipes that use thinly sliced, lean cuts or fully cooked meats like ham or smoked sausage.
Can you cook meat and potatoes together?
Yes, you can cook meat and potatoes together in a skillet, oven, or slow cooker. To ensure even cooking:
- Skillet or oven: Start with the meat to brown it and render fat, then add potatoes so they absorb the flavors.
- Slow cooker: Layer potatoes on the bottom for even cooking, as they take longer than most meats to soften.
This method is efficient and results in a flavorful combination.