Hamburger and Potato Casserole
Embrace the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals with this Easy 5-Ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole. Perfect for those cozy nights, this hearty dish combines ground beef, diced potatoes, creamy soup, and a cheesy topping — all in a deliciously satisfying casserole. It’s the epitome of comfort food, and the best part? It requires just five simple ingredients and minimal prep time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole not only delights your taste buds but also saves you time in the kitchen. With just five ingredients, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The combination of flavors from the beef, potatoes, and cheese makes each bite a celebration of comfort. Plus, this dish is versatile; you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste!
Pro Tips for Making Hamburger & Potato Casserole
1. **Use Lean Ground Beef**: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the casserole, while still maintaining rich flavor.
2. **Add Vegetables**: If you want a nutritional boost, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or frozen mixed vegetables to the mixture.
3. **Cheese Variety**: While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.
4. **Spices and Seasonings**: Enhance the flavor by adding salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spices while cooking the beef.
5. **Leftover Magic**: This casserole reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers. Just store it in an airtight container and enjoy it the next day!
Ingredients
This casserole requires the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Ground Beef: A hearty base for rich flavor.
- 32 ounces Frozen Diced Potatoes: No peeling or chopping needed!
- 10.5 ounces Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creamy goodness. Can substitute with cream of chicken if preferred.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: To create a gooey topping that ties everything together.
- 1 medium Finely Chopped Onion: Optional, but adds great flavor!
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly once everything is combined.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring even cooking. If you’re using onions, add them to the skillet with the beef and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This is important to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef (with onions, if using), frozen diced potatoes, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese, using as much or as little as you like.
Step 6: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
Step 7: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or crusty bread!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but they will require peeling and chopping. Additionally, adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready to eat. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if putting it in the oven cold.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it with some garlic bread for added comfort!
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Yes, this casserole is an excellent option for kids! Its cheesy topping and hearty ingredients appeal to many young palates. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some potatoes and veggies if you decide to add them!
Conclusion
This Easy 5-Ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food for cozy nights at home. With minimal ingredients and prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the deliciousness and warmth of this hearty casserole, and make it a regular part of your weeknight dinner rotation!
