Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole

        Once upon a time, I had more time. I feel as though we all have that feeling! Life gets away with us between work, school, kids, etc. Whatever your busy is about, I understand. I used to be able to entertain more than I do now. I don’t even host parties or holidays as much as I used to. Some of that is busy, and some of that is just wanting to be a home body. I also just do not have the time.

        I feel as though this has spread into my kitchen as well. Between all the things that need to get done, I have a newfound respect and need for quick and delicious meals in my life. That is why this casserole must be shared with you today! It is a time saver without sacrificing on the taste, fill, and wow factor.

Casseroles have been around for ages, I know! I personally grew up on them. Neighbors sharing casseroles was a love language back then. In some precious neighborhoods it still is. I feel as though this casserole would hold its own in a potluck or casserole exchange to where you would be asked for the recipe!

As a cook myself, I enjoy meal planning and menu creation, but the reality of things is that life does not always allow those things to come to fruition every single day. In which case, I need a dinner hero dish—and this casserole is on my go-to list!

What SETS THIS CASSEROLE APART?

As I mentioned, I grew up eating casseroles—so no hate. I feel as though each dish has its own beautiful and delicious world it belongs in. There are some dishes, however, that stand apart. In this dish, there’s a delectable blend of flavors that does just that.

Cook’s NOTES

Potatoes:  For this recipe, I used russet potatoes. Russet potatoes hold their shape the best in casserole type dishes. The type of potato you use in this dish, and others, really does matter! You don’t want your potatoes coming out as a soup in your pan.

Casserole Pan – Use a nice and deep 9×13 casserole pan for this recipe.

Dealing with Leftovers

The leftovers you may have from this recipe can last in the fridge for around four days. Be sure to use an airtight container for maximum freshness. I love this beefy cheese tater casserole for a quick grab and go lunch throughout the week.

Freezing

Freezing casseroles is a big part of their appeal to me (and others). The beefy cheese tater casserole works in the same way. It holds over well in the freezer for a few months. As always though, remember that what you store your food in also plays a factor in a food’s lifespan in the fridge and freezer too.

As far as heating up, allow the casserole to thaw out overnight before reheating. I like to portion mine out in the freezer in bowls and then set down the night before for next day eating.

How to Serve

I suggest side dishes such as roasted carrots, sweet rolls, other types of veggies, and whatever else you may like! It’s a very versatile dish as far what sides ot serve with it.

What do you need to make Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole

5 large potatoes, peeled and sliced

1 lb ground beef

3 tbsp salted butter

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

8 oz shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup onions, chopped

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to make Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole

FIRST STEP:

Preheat oven to 350F.

In a skillet, brown the onion and beef.

SECOND STEP:

Slice your potatoes to ¼-1/2 inches. Add a layer of potatoes to a generously greased casserole pan.

a)

b)

Add half of the beef and onion mixture on top of the first layer of potatoes.

THIRD STEP:

Continue to layer the potatoes and then the beef mixture into the pan.

FOURTH STEP:

Prepare the Cheese sauce:

1. Melt the 3 tbsp of butter into a pan.

2. Add the 3 tbsp of flour and salt and pepper

a)

b)

3. Add the milk

4. Stir until thickened

5. Remove from the heat and add cheddar

FIFTH STEP:

Pour the cheese over the potatoes and beef in the pan. Coat the potatoes well.

Cover the dish with tin foil and bake for around 90 minutes. The potatoes will be done and brown.

Enjoy!

YUM!