Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic.
- Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them thinly (about 1/8-inch thick). Use a mandoline slicer for even cuts, if available.
4. Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Add a single layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping them.
- Sprinkle a portion of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by a small handful of cheddar cheese.
- Drizzle some of the sauce over the layer.
- Repeat the layering process (potatoes, beef, cheese, sauce) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Let it Rest
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and serve warm. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Thin Potato Slices: Ensure your potato slices are thin and uniform to cook evenly.
- Cheese Variety: Mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor.
- Add Veggies: Include diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Check Doneness: Use a fork to ensure the potatoes are tender before removing from the oven.