Savory Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners (Print version)

Tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and cheddar bake into a cozy casserole for family dinners.

# Ingredients:

For the beef and potatoes

01 - 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
07 - 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 2 1/2 lb (1.1 kg) russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick

For the creamy sauce

10 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 - 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk
13 - 3/4 cup (180 ml) low-sodium beef broth
14 - 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
15 - 2 cups (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
16 - 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, optional for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
02 - Cook the ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain extra fat if needed.
03 - Stir in the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then transfer the beef mixture to a bowl.
04 - In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and beef broth, then simmer for 3-4 minutes until lightly thickened. Remove from the heat and whisk in the sour cream.
05 - Arrange half the potato slices in the baking dish and season with part of the remaining salt. Add half the beef mixture, half the sauce, and 1/2 cup cheddar. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and another 1/2 cup cheddar.
06 - Cover tightly with foil and bake for 55-60 minutes, until the potatoes in the center are almost tender when pierced with a knife.
07 - Uncover, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup cheddar, and bake for 12-15 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned. Rest for 10 minutes, then garnish with parsley if using.

# Good to know:

01 - Slice potatoes thin and evenly so the center cooks through.
02 - Best served after a 10 minute rest.
03 - Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.