If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious one-dish meal, this Hamburger Casserole Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving a comforting dish. Made with lean ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole comes together in one skillet or baking dish, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a simple, family-friendly recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hamburger Casserole is:
- Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, this casserole is perfect for quick and easy weeknight meals.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a satisfying dish that will fill everyone up.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to fit your tastes or use what you have on hand.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for families, busy cooks, or anyone who loves classic comfort food. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced in the kitchen, this Hamburger Casserole is simple to make and delivers delicious results every time. It’s also great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped green bell peppers (optional)
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 oz Provolone cheese (or any cheese you prefer)
- 1 tsp cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast-iron skillet or non-stick skillet
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Casserole dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet)
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
In a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick skillet over medium heat, cook the 1 lb of lean ground beef, 1 cup of chopped onion, and 1 cup of chopped green bell peppers (if using) until the meat is browned and the vegetables are soft, about 7-8 minutes. Stir frequently and season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess grease if needed.
2. Add the Potatoes
Next, stir in the 4 cups of diced potatoes. Reduce the heat to low-medium, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
3. Add the Milk and Cornstarch
Once the potatoes are soft, if you’re using a cast-iron skillet, add 1 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch directly to the skillet. Stir well to combine and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
If you’re using a casserole dish, transfer the meat and potato mixture to the dish. In a small bowl, whisk the milk and cornstarch together, then pour the mixture over the meat and potatoes in the casserole dish.
4. Top with Cheese and Bake
Place 4 oz of Provolone cheese (or your preferred cheese) in rounds or slices on top of the casserole. Transfer the skillet or casserole dish to a 350°F (175°C) preheated oven.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. If you’d like a crispier top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy your Hamburger Casserole with a side salad or your favorite vegetables.
Tips and Tricks
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to dice the potatoes into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the entire casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
- Customize the Cheese: While Provolone adds a great melt and flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or a cheese blend to suit your taste.
