
Dive into this mouthwatering Hamburger and Potato Casserole packed with layers of Yukon gold potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey Colby Jack cheese. This is perfect for snuggly nights in or sharing with friends. Between the creamy mushroom soup sauce and melty cheese throughout, you get comfort food that's simple to put together and sure to please every hungry guest!
INGREDIENTS
- 3 cups freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese (divided): Makes each layer extra cheesy and melty.
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a little spicy zing and more flavor.
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Brings out all the best flavors.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Packs in that savory taste into the beef.
- 1 cup half and half: Turns your sauce rich and smooth.
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup: Pulls everything together with a creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Kicks up the aroma and taste.
- 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion: Boosts sweetness and depth in every bite.
- 2 pounds lean ground beef: Packs in serious flavor and fills you up.
- 2.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes: Brings softness and creaminess to every scoop.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Boost: Add some sliced jalapeños on top or sprinkle in cayenne for a little kick.
- Healthier Version: Try swapping the beef with ground turkey or chicken for lighter fare.
- Add More Veggies: Sauté spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers and layer them in for extra color and flavor.
- Cheese Overload: Go wild and use Monterey Jack or Cheddar for even more cheesy goodness.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 9:
- Take the casserole out, let it cool about 15 minutes so you don’t burn your tongue, then dig in and enjoy!
- Step 8:
- When it's ready, whip off the foil and let it bake another 20 minutes. This gets your top golden and bubbling, and all the cheese melts perfectly.
- Step 7:
- Go through this layering two more times. Save a nice big handful of cheese for the top so it finishes with that awesome cheesy layer.
- Step 6:
- Lay down a third of the beef mix on top, scatter on some cheese, then pour a scoop of the soup mixture right over.
- Step 5:
- Drain those potatoes, and lay a third of them in your prepared dish to start the first layer.
- Step 4:
- Grab a bowl and whisk together your soup, half and half, onion powder, salt, and pepper until it’s all smooth.
- Step 3:
- Brown up your ground beef in a pot or Dutch oven with onions and garlic on medium-high. Remember to break it up as it cooks and spoon off any fat at the end.
- Step 2:
- Crank your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease up a 9x13-inch pan so nothing sticks.
- Step 1:
- Slice Yukon gold potatoes nice and thin—about ⅛ inch. Toss them in a bowl of water to keep them from turning brown while you get the rest ready.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Dish it out hot and pair it with some green salad or just-steamed veggies for a simple meal.
- Leftovers? Pop 'em into a sealed container and keep them in the fridge up to 3 days. Zap it in the microwave or warm it in the oven when you’re hungry again.
- If you're getting ahead, build the casserole, cover tightly, and stick it in the fridge for up to a day. Or freeze before baking—it’ll last a couple months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before it's oven time.
Tips from famous chefs
- Chef Rachael Ray: "Sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs up top right before it's done—the crunch is a game changer."
- Chef Ina Garten: "Yukon gold potatoes stay creamy and balance the richness from the beef and the cheese, making every forkful just right."
- Chef Bobby Flay: "Season every layer with a pinch of salt and pepper so the flavor pops in every bite, not just on top."