Easy 5-ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a simple, hearty meal that's sure to satisfy the whole family? This Easy 5-Ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole recipe is exactly what you need! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines basic ingredients that most of us already have in our pantry. Follow along for a straightforward recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, with step-by-step instructions that make the cooking process a breeze. Stick around till the end for serving suggestions, common mistakes to avoid, and frequently asked questions!

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What is a “Hamburger & Potato Casserole”?

A hamburger and potato casserole is a delicious comfort food dish that layers cooked ground beef (or "hamburger") with thinly sliced potatoes, all baked together in a casserole dish. It’s often topped with cheese or a creamy sauce, making it rich and satisfying. This version focuses on simplicity, using only five ingredients to create a wholesome, filling meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress your guests, this casserole is a surefire hit.

Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger & Potato Casserole

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. All you need are five basic ingredients, which are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Ground Beef – 1 pound
   • Ground beef is the star of this casserole. You can use lean beef for a healthier option, but any type works.
2. Potatoes – 4 medium-sized
   • Potatoes give this casserole its hearty texture. Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are the best choices due to their texture.
3. Onion – 1 medium
   • A finely chopped onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
4. Cream of Mushroom Soup – 1 can (10.5 ounces)
   • The cream of mushroom soup binds everything together and provides a creamy consistency.
5. Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded
   • Cheese not only adds flavor but also helps to create a golden, crispy topping.

Substitutions and Variations

While the original recipe only calls for five ingredients, feel free to make substitutions or add other elements to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions.

• Meat Alternatives: If you prefer a leaner or vegetarian option, ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes work just as well.
• Different Potatoes: Instead of russet potatoes, try sweet potatoes or red potatoes for a slightly different flavor.
• Additional Veggies: You can add vegetables like green beans, carrots, or peas to the casserole for added nutrition and color.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free or gluten-free version.
• Other Cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds (around ¼ inch thick). Finely chop the onion and shred the cheddar cheese if it’s not pre-shredded.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take around 6-8 minutes. Be sure to break the beef into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

3. Layer the Ingredients

In a lightly greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, start by layering half of the potato slices on the bottom. Sprinkle half of the chopped onions on top of the potatoes. Next, evenly spread half of the cooked ground beef. Pour half of the can of cream of mushroom soup over the beef, spreading it out with a spoon. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, beef, and soup.

4. Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer. This will melt and form a golden, bubbly crust that adds richness and flavor.

5. Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Let it Rest

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes to allow it to set. This will make it easier to serve and enhance the flavors.

How to Cook Hamburger & Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the process:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Preheat oven, slice potatoes, chop onions, and shred cheese.
2. Cook the meat: Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
3. Layer the casserole: Alternate layers of potatoes, onions, beef, and soup.
4. Add cheese: Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake: Cover with foil, bake for 45 minutes, uncover, and bake another 15 minutes.
6. Rest: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this is a simple recipe, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure the best results:

• Using Raw Potatoes: Make sure the potato slices are thin enough (around ¼ inch) so they cook through properly. Thicker slices may remain undercooked.
• Skipping the Drain on Ground Beef: Not draining the excess fat from the cooked beef can make your casserole greasy.
• Not Preheating the Oven: If your oven isn’t preheated, the casserole might cook unevenly.
• Overcooking the Cheese: Be mindful of the cheese in the final 10-15 minutes. You want it golden and bubbly, not burnt.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A casserole is already a visually appealing dish, with its layers of ingredients and crispy cheese topping. However, with a little extra effort, you can make it even more inviting.

How to Serve Hamburger & Potato Casserole

• Portion Sizes: Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop out generous portions. The casserole will hold its shape well if it's allowed to rest before serving.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to add some color and lighten up the meal. Bread rolls or garlic bread are also great sides for soaking up any sauce from the casserole.
• Toppings: A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or some freshly ground black pepper can add a pop of flavor and a decorative touch.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger & Potato Casserole

• Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins. This is perfect for dinner parties or when you want to create a more personalized meal.
• Garnishing: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a splash of green to the top of your casserole and give it a gourmet feel. A sprinkle of paprika on the cheese also adds color and an extra hint of flavor.

Hamburger & Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use a Mandoline: If you have a mandoline slicer, it can make cutting the potatoes thin and even much easier.
• Double the Recipe: This casserole freezes well, so if you want to make a bigger batch, you can double the ingredients and freeze one for later.
• Make it Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. When you're ready to bake it, simply pop it in the oven and add 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes can be used in place of ground beef.

Can I freeze hamburger and potato casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Be sure to let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and store it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.

How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the casserole will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, adding vegetables like green beans, peas, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole.

Conclusion

This Easy 5-Ingredient Hamburger & Potato Casserole is a comfort food classic that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With just five simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your own twist with variations and substitutions, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try today, and don’t forget to experiment with different flavors to make it your own!

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