Hamburger and Potato Casserole

This hearty, comforting casserole is the ultimate family meal – layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese baked to perfection.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup

• ½ cup milk or beef broth

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or French fried onions (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute longer. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Prepare Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika until smooth.

4. Layer Casserole: Spread half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the ground beef mixture, then half of the soup mixture. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.

5. Cover and Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

6. Add Topping and Finish: Remove foil, sprinkle with shredded cheese and optional topping. Return to oven and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Rest and Serve: Let stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.

Helpful Tips

• Potato Prep: For even cooking, slice potatoes uniformly about ⅛-inch thick. A mandoline works great for this.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover and refrigerate. Add 15-20 minutes to baking time if starting cold.

• Customize: Add 1-2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) with the beef mixture for extra nutrition.

• Cheese Variation: Try different cheese blends like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

• Crispy Top: For extra crunch, mix the crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons melted butter before sprinkling over the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad or steamed green vegetables

• Excellent with crusty bread for soaking up any sauce

• Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep

This satisfying casserole is comfort food at its best – creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor that everyone will love!