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Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Slice the Potatoes: Start by peeling and thinly slicing your potatoes into rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices, or just use a sharp knife.
- Pre-cook the Potatoes: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the sliced potatoes. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just tender but not fully cooked. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Cook the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Mix the Soup and Milk: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk. This will create a creamy base for the casserole.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, begin by layering half of the cooked potatoes on the bottom. Top with half of the cooked ground beef mixture, then pour half of the soup mixture over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Check for Doneness: You can check if the casserole is done by inserting a fork into the potatoes—if it goes through easily, the casserole is ready.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor, if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve this cheesy, comforting casserole with a side of vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole:
- Comforting and Hearty: This casserole combines some of the best comfort food ingredients—potatoes, ground beef, and cheese. It’s filling, warm, and exactly what you need on a cozy night.
- One-Pan Meal: The beauty of casseroles is how simple they are to prepare. This dish uses one skillet for the beef and one baking dish for the entire casserole, meaning easy prep and minimal cleanup.
- Family-Friendly: The cheesy, savory flavors are sure to please even picky eaters, making it a great choice for family dinners. Plus, you can add or remove ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Leftovers for Days: This casserole makes great leftovers. It’s just as tasty the next day, whether you reheat it in the microwave or oven.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole:
- Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for extra flavor.
- Make It Lighter: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to make the casserole lighter. You can also use low-fat milk and soup to reduce the calorie count.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add some frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition. Just stir them into the beef mixture before layering.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready, bake as directed.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s sure to satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling cozy. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers the next day. Whip up this easy casserole and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and incredibly satisfying! 🍽️🧀
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