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Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole

Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole
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Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is a warm, comforting dish combining savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese in a hearty, cheesy casserole. Perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals, this one-dish recipe is full of layers of flavor and texture, simple to prepare, and easily customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed (Russet or Yukon Gold)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter (for sautéing)
  • 2 cups milk or cream
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch for GF version)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Herbs and Spices

  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp thyme

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Jalapeños or cayenne pepper, to taste (for spicy version)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water until just tender but still firm enough to hold their shape, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. If using optional veggies, add them during this step and cook until softened.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika, garlic powder, or thyme.
  4. Combine Ingredients in a Casserole Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish. Layer the cooked potatoes and ground beef mixture evenly in the dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently stir a little to mix without mashing the potatoes.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and the dish firm up.

Notes

  • Season each layer separately to build rich, balanced flavors.
  • Do not overcook potatoes before baking to avoid a mushy casserole.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for stronger flavor.
  • Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up.
  • Mixing two cheeses can add extra depth and creaminess.
  • You can use ground turkey or chicken and substitute cauliflower for potatoes for a healthier version.
  • Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to make the dish gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: hamburger casserole, potato casserole, cheese casserole, ground beef recipe, comfort food, family dinner, weeknight meal

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