Hamburger and Potato Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Prepare the Casserole Layers: While the beef is cooking, slice the potatoes thinly (about 1/8-inch thick). You can use a mandoline slicer to ensure the slices are even.
4. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. Top with half of the cooked ground beef mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and beef.
5. Mix the Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the casserole, spreading it out with a spatula to ensure all the potatoes are covered.
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a touch of color and freshness.

Tips for the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole:

• Use Russet Potatoes:
  Russet potatoes work best for casseroles because they break down slightly as they cook, making the dish creamy and tender. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a great option if you prefer a creamier texture.
• Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor:
  Feel free to add vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition. Simply layer them in with the potatoes and beef.
• Make it Spicy:
  If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Use Different Cheeses:
  While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this casserole, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of different cheeses for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead:
  This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil and bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Freezer-Friendly:
  You can also freeze the casserole before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. To bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake according to the instructions.

Conclusion:

Hamburger and Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—a satisfying, easy-to-make meal that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese. Perfect for busy nights or casual family dinners, this casserole is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor, making it the perfect dish to share with loved ones. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic!