Introduction
When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals that bring warmth to the dinner table, few dishes compare to a Cheesy Hamburger & Potato Bake. This classic casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with a golden layer of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—layered ingredients bake together to create a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The potatoes soak up the savory beef juices and creamy soup, while the cheese forms a deliciously crispy topping. Whether served with a side salad or crusty bread, this bake is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ¼-inch thick)
- 1 can (10.5 oz/295g) cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of celery or chicken)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional additions:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (mixed into the beef layer)
Directions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Beef and Onions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 7–8 minutes).
- Drain excess grease and season with salt and pepper (and optional spices if using).
3. Layer the Casserole
- First layer: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
- Second layer: Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Third layer: Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup over the beef (dollop and gently smooth with a spoon).
- Fourth layer: Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers: Add remaining potatoes, beef, soup, and finish with the last 1 cup of cheese.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Serving Suggestions
- With Greens: Pair with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans.
- Bread on the Side: Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Extra Toppings: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (covered) for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Hamburger & Potato Bake is the epitome of comfort food—simple, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy. With its layers of savory beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires little prep and delivers maximum flavor.
Ideal for busy households or anyone craving a nostalgic, home-cooked meal, this casserole is versatile enough to adapt with extra veggies or spices. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this bake is a dependable choice that never disappoints.
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