Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole (Print version)
Layers of ground beef, sliced potatoes, and creamy cheddar sauce bake into a comforting casserole that feeds the whole family.
# Ingredients:
For the beef
01 -
1.5 lb (680 g) ground beef (85% lean)
02 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 tsp kosher salt
05 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the sauce and layers
06 -
3 lb (1.4 kg) russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick
07 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
08 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
09 -
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk
10 -
1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
11 -
1 tsp garlic powder
12 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
13 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
14 -
2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 -
1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
16 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook the ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up the meat as it browns. When no pink remains, stir in the garlic, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat and set aside.
02 -
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute. Gradually add the milk and broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Simmer for two to three minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.
03 -
Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Arrange half the potato slices in an even layer and season lightly. Spread half the beef mixture on top, then scatter half of each cheese over the beef. Repeat the layers once more.
04 -
Slowly pour the warm sauce over the layers, tipping the dish gently so the liquid seeps into the gaps. Cover tightly with foil and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 50 to 60 minutes, until a knife easily pierces the center potatoes.
05 -
Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and spotty golden. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so the slices hold their shape.
# Good to know:
01 -
Letting the casserole rest for ten minutes before serving helps the layers set and makes clean scoops easier.
02 -
For extra color, finish under the broiler for one to two minutes, watching closely.