There’s something truly comforting about a hearty casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling the kitchen with welcoming aromas. Inspired by a chilly evening spent reminiscing over family meals, I decided to create the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup. This dish effortlessly combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich tomato base, making it a go-to for any weeknight dinner.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—everything cooks in just one dish, minimizing cleanup time while maximizing flavor. Whether you’re trying to impress the family or looking for a budget-friendly meal that even the pickiest eater will devour, this casserole has you covered. It’s the perfect comfort food, offering a satisfying blend of flavors that warms your soul, reminding you that the best meals are often the ones served straight from the heart. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Why You’ll Love This Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup
Ease of Preparation: Everything comes together effortlessly in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Budget-Friendly Delight: With affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank, this dish is perfect for families.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters find comfort in the rich flavors and hearty textures of this casserole.
Versatile Option: Mix in any leftover vegetables or switch up the protein for delightful variations!
Ultimate Comfort Food: The savory blend of beef and creamy potatoes bathed in tomato goodness is simply divine.
This dish not only shines on the dinner table but also offers a heartwarming experience that brings loved ones together. Perfect to enjoy after a long day!
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole Ingredients
• Gather these essentials to create the comforting Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup that everyone will love!
For the Casserole
- Ground Beef (2.5 lb, 80/20 Chuck) – This blend provides richness and flavor; opting for ground chuck keeps it nice and moist.
- Potatoes (3.5 cups, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds) – The main carbs in the dish; thin slices ensure they cook perfectly during baking.
- Onions (1/2 cup, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces) – Adds a delectable sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder taste if preferred.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) – Injects aromatic flavor; for a bolder kick, fresh garlic makes a fantastic substitute.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; remember to layer the seasonings for the best flavor throughout!
- Tomato Juice (2 cups, Campbell’s) – Acts as the saucy base, lending moisture and tang; vegetable broth works as a lighter alternative.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Enhances the flavor profile during cooking; make sure to remove it before serving for a seamless experience.
For Serving
- Fresh Green Salad – Balances the richness of the casserole; a crisp side helps brighten the meal.
- Warm Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the savory sauce, adding comfort to every bite.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to whipping up a delightful and hearty meal that will become a family favorite!
How to Make Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup
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Prep Ingredients: Begin by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes, and finely dicing the onions. Arrange everything near your stove for easy access as you cook.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to preheat while you brown the meat, ensuring a perfect bake once assembled.
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Cook Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 5-8 minutes. Add the diced onions halfway through to soften them and enhance their sweetness.
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Season Beef: Once browned, season the meat mixture generously with salt and pepper. Stir in the garlic powder for added aromatic flavor and mix thoroughly.
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Assemble Casserole: Evenly spread the cooked hamburger and onion mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top, slightly overlapping them to create an even surface.
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Layer & Pour: Season the potato layer with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently pour the tomato juice over the top, ensuring it covers the potatoes, and tuck in the bay leaf for flavor.
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Cover & Bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam, and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
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Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, discard the bay leaf, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole
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Layer Seasoning: Always season each layer of your casserole for maximum flavor. This ensures the best hamburger and potato casserole doesn’t taste bland.
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Uniform Potato Slices: Slice your potatoes to 1/8 inch for even cooking. Thick slices might not fully tenderize during baking, leaving you with a crunchy casserole.
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Check Grease Levels: Drain excess fat after browning the beef. This prevents a greasy casserole, allowing the flavors to shine without the oily texture.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic or herbs can elevate your casserole’s flavor profile. Dried spices are convenient, but fresh ingredients add a delightful touch.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the dish set, making serving easier and enhancing the overall experience.
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity with fun twists on this hearty casserole, ensuring every bite is fresh and exciting!
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner alternative that still packs flavor.
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Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. The natural sweetness complements the savory base beautifully!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in cooked peas or corn for added nutrition and a lovely pop of color. This extra layer of flavor enhances the comfort factor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for those who crave a little heat. The spice elevates the flavor profile and gives your casserole a fun twist!
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Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of baking for a melty, gooey topping. Who doesn’t love a cheesy finish to their comfort food?
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can be mixed in with the beef for a burst of flavor. This fragrant addition will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas.
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Creamy Comfort: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before baking for added creaminess and richness. This twist will transform your casserole into an indulgent treat.
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Grainy Base: Mix in cooked rice or quinoa at the bottom of the dish for a hearty layer that makes this meal even more filling. It adds a nice texture contrast and a nutritious boost.
How to Store and Freeze Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.
Freezer: This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
Portioning: Consider portioning the casserole before freezing for easy meal prep and quick meals on busy weeknights!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Start by browning the ground beef and then layering it with the sliced potatoes, seasoning, and tomato juice as directed. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate it until ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure the casserole is heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners blissfully easy!
What to Serve with Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup?
Creating a memorable meal experience goes beyond the main dish; it’s about what pairs harmoniously alongside it.
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Fresh Green Salad: This crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the casserole, brightening each bite. Toss in a tangy vinaigrette for extra zest!
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Garlic Bread: The savory, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the casserole perfectly, providing a delightful way to soak up the sauce.
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Steamed Green Beans: These tender vegetables add a pop of color and a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the casserole beautifully.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight caramelization of roasted Brussels sprouts enhances their earthy flavor, making them a fantastic side that pairs wonderfully with ground beef.
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Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a satisfying crunch and a slightly tangy taste, creating an exciting contrast against the savory casserole.
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Crispy Onion Rings: Golden, crispy onion rings provide a delightful textural difference and their savory-sweet flavor elevates the meal experience to new heights.
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Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet cleanses the palate after the hearty casserole, leaving a refreshing taste to end the meal on a sweet note.
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Iced Tea: A tall glass of homemade iced tea or lemonade offers a refreshing drink that complements the comforting flavors of the casserole beautifully.
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef is best for this casserole?
Absolutely! Using 80/20 ground chuck is ideal for this Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup because it offers a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work wonderfully. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the dish moisture-rich.
How do I know if my potatoes are ripe enough for baking?
Very! For the best texture, choose firm potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes. If the potato skin is smooth and without sprouts, they’re ready to cook. Remember, slicing them into 1/8-inch thick rounds ensures they cook evenly during baking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure you let it cool down before sealing it tightly. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven or microwave and enjoy!
Can I freeze this casserole? How?
Certainly! This casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm throughout, about 30-40 minutes.
Are there any common issues when making this casserole?
Absolutely! One common issue is the casserole turning out too greasy. To avoid this, make sure to drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef before layering it in the dish. Also, periodically check the tenderness of your potatoes with a fork after about 45 minutes of baking; this way, you’ll know when they are perfectly soft.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets, such as Gluten-Free?
Yes! This casserole can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free tomato juice or broth. Always check your labels carefully to ensure they meet your dietary requirements. For those with specific allergies, be sure to substitute ingredients accordingly; for instance, using dairy-free products if you’re lactose intolerant.
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup Delight
Equipment
- - Large skillet
- - Baking dish
- - Knife
- - Cutting board
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2.5 lb Ground Beef (80/20 Chuck) This blend provides richness and flavor; opting for ground chuck keeps it nice and moist.
- 3.5 cups Potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds Thin slices ensure they cook perfectly during baking.
- 0.5 cups Onions, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces Adds a delectable sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder taste if preferred.
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder Injects aromatic flavor; for a bolder kick, fresh garlic makes a fantastic substitute.
- Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning; remember to layer the seasonings for the best flavor throughout!
- 2 cups Tomato Juice (Campbell's) Acts as the saucy base, lending moisture and tang; vegetable broth works as a lighter alternative.
- 1 Bay Leaf Enhances the flavor profile during cooking; make sure to remove it before serving for a seamless experience.
For Serving
- Fresh Green Salad Balances the richness of the casserole; a crisp side helps brighten the meal.
- Warm Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread Perfect for dipping into the savory sauce, adding comfort to every bite.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Begin by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes, and finely dicing the onions. Arrange everything near your stove for easy access as you cook.
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to preheat while you brown the meat, ensuring a perfect bake once assembled.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 5-8 minutes. Add the diced onions halfway through to soften them and enhance their sweetness.
- Once browned, season the meat mixture generously with salt and pepper. Stir in the garlic powder for added aromatic flavor and mix thoroughly.
- Evenly spread the cooked hamburger and onion mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top, slightly overlapping them to create an even surface.
- Season the potato layer with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently pour the tomato juice over the top, ensuring it covers the potatoes, and tuck in the bay leaf for flavor.
- Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam, and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the casserole from the oven, discard the bay leaf, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.