Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup Delight
Experience the comforting blend of ground beef, potatoes, and tomato soup in this Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole.
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.
Notes
Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking to enhance the overall experience.