Ah, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole—this is pure comfort food magic: hearty, cheesy, and filling, perfect for weeknights when you want something easy but satisfying. Here’s a breakdown:
Ingredients
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Ground beef – Browned and seasoned, forms the savory base.
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Potatoes – Sliced thin, diced, or shredded, depending on texture preference.
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Cheese – Cheddar is classic, but a mix of cheeses works for extra gooeyness.
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Creamy sauce – Can be a condensed soup (cream of mushroom or cheddar), sour cream, or a homemade cream sauce.
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Optional extras – Onion, garlic, bell peppers, paprika, herbs, or bacon bits.
Basic Steps
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Pre-cook potatoes (if raw): Slice or dice, then boil for 5–7 minutes until just tender.
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Brown ground beef: Season with salt, pepper, and optional onion/garlic. Drain excess fat.
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Layer casserole:
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Layer potatoes, then ground beef, then cheese and sauce. Repeat if needed.
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Bake: 350°F (175°C) for 25–35 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Serve: Optional garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Why It Works
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All-in-one meal: Protein, carbs, and cheese in one dish.
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Customizable: Add vegetables, spices, or different cheeses to taste.
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Kid-friendly & crowd-pleasing: Almost everyone loves a cheesy, hearty casserole.
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Make-ahead: Can assemble in advance and bake when ready.
If you want, I can give you a shortcut, 30-minute version that uses frozen hash browns and a creamy cheese sauce for a weeknight-friendly dinner that still tastes homemade.