Method
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, thinly slice the potatoes into even rounds. Set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined. Season with a bit of salt and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes over the sauce, overlapping them slightly.
- Spoon half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the remaining sauce over the beef layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and sauce.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. If using, add breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy topping.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Hamburger and Potato Casserole
- Even Potato Slices: Ensure the potato slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
- Season Well: Season each layer with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
Versatile and Delicious
This casserole is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences:
- Vegetable Additions: Add layers of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Different Meats: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy variation.
Nutritional Benefits
Hamburger and potato casserole offers a balanced meal with:
- Protein: Ground beef provides essential protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth.
- Carbohydrates: Potatoes offer complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Onions, garlic, and potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
