### **Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe**
#### **Introduction:**
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines two classic ingredients—ground beef and potatoes—into a satisfying, one-pan meal. Often baked with cheese, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to comfort food for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
#### **Origin and Cultural Significance:**
The origins of Hamburger Potato Casserole are rooted in American home cooking, particularly in the Midwest and Southern United States, where casseroles are a staple of everyday meals. Casseroles became a popular choice for families in the mid-20th century because they are easy to prepare, economical, and can be made in large quantities. The combination of hamburger meat and potatoes reflects the use of affordable, readily available ingredients, making it a classic “family-friendly” meal. Over time, regional variations have introduced additional ingredients like cheese, onions, or even sour cream, each contributing to the dish’s versatility.
#### **Ingredients & Quantity:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any preferred cheese)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for greasing the casserole dish)
#### **Optional Additions:**
– 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
– 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers or mushrooms
– 1/4 tsp dried thyme or oregano for added flavor
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for a hint of spice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top
#### **Tips for Success:**
1. **Thinly Slice Potatoes:** Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) so they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
2. **Cook the Ground Beef Thoroughly:** Brown the ground beef completely before assembling the casserole. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasy layers in the casserole.
3. **Layering:** For the best texture, layer the potatoes, beef, and sauce mixture evenly to ensure the flavors meld together during baking.
4. **Pre-cooking Potatoes (Optional):** If you prefer, you can par-cook the potatoes in the microwave for a few minutes to speed up the baking process.
5. **Cheese:** For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, along with cheddar.
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Casserole Dish:** Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or butter.
3. **Cook the Ground Beef:** In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
4. **Make the Sauce:** In a bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. **Layer the Casserole:** Begin by layering the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the casserole dish. Top with half of the cooked beef and onion mixture. Pour half of the sauce mixture over the beef. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.
6. **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. **Bake:** Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
8. **Finish Baking:** Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become golden.
9. **Serve:** Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or additional herbs if desired.
#### **Description:**
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a warm, filling dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The potatoes absorb the savory flavors of the beef and sauce, creating a rich, satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The melted cheese on top provides a delicious, golden finish, while the sour cream and soup mixture adds creaminess and depth. This casserole is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
#### **Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1/6 of Recipe):**
– **Calories:** 400
– **Protein:** 25g
– **Fat:** 25g
– Saturated Fat: 11g
– **Carbohydrates:** 30g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 3g
– **Cholesterol:** 60mg
– **Sodium:** 600mg
– **Calcium:** 300mg
– **Iron:** 2mg
**Note:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
#### **Conclusion:**
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a delicious and budget-friendly dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the comforting appeal of potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce. Its easy preparation and satisfying nature make it a perfect weeknight meal or crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit.
#### **Recommendation:**
This casserole is a great choice for anyone who enjoys hearty, filling meals that are simple to prepare. It’s especially ideal for families with children, as its combination of flavors is familiar and comforting. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For a bit of variation, try adding different vegetables, such as peas or corn, to introduce new flavors and textures.
#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence:**
While Hamburger Potato Casserole is certainly a rich dish, you can make a few swaps to make it a bit lighter without sacrificing taste. For a lower-fat version, use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef. Opt for low-fat sour cream and a reduced-fat version of cream of mushroom soup. You can also reduce the cheese portion or use a lighter cheese alternative. Additionally, using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes can add more nutrients and a slightly different flavor. These adjustments will help you enjoy this comforting casserole in a more health-conscious way.