Hamburger and Potato Casserole: A Comforting Classic

Method

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Wash and peel the potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, thinly slice the potatoes into even rounds. Set aside.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.