CHEESY HAMBURGER POTATO CASSEROLE

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Season the beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and remove from the heat. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream of mushroom soup and stir to combine.
   • Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously, until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a portion of the sliced potatoes. Top with half of the cooked ground beef, spreading it evenly over the potatoes.
   • Pour half of the cheese sauce over the beef and potatoes. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese sauce.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
   • Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to slice. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or enjoy it as is for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Use Thinly Sliced Potatoes: For the best texture, slice your potatoes as thinly as possible. Thin slices cook more evenly and absorb the flavors of the casserole better. A mandoline slicer can help you achieve uniform slices.
• Add Extra Veggies: To make the casserole even more wholesome, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture. This adds flavor and extra nutrients.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack cheese can add some heat, while gouda or Swiss can provide a unique flavor profile.
• Leftovers: This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Why This Recipe Works

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food because it combines familiar, cozy ingredients in a new and exciting way. The layers of ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese sauce create a filling, satisfying dish that is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. It’s a simple recipe that requires minimal prep but delivers big flavors, making it a great choice for busy nights or when you’re looking to feed a crowd.

Conclusion

Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or looking for a comforting, filling dish for a weekend gathering, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the answer. This easy-to-make recipe is loaded with flavor and is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, this casserole is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this irresistible dish!