Cheesy Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Mushrooms

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I’m Introduction

This casserole combines the rustic flavors of thinly sliced potatoes, juicy hamburger patties, sautéed mushrooms, and gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect family-style dinner, baked to perfection in the oven. Casseroles like this became especially popular in American households during the mid-20th century, as they provided hearty meals using affordable, everyday ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 4 large potatoes (thinly sliced)
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (formed into patties)
  • 1 medium onion (sliced)
  • 1 cup fresh mushrooms (sliced)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend)
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz / 300g)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional, for flavor and color)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions & Methods

Step 1 – Prepare the potatoes

  • Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin rounds.
  • Parboil them in salted water for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 – Cook the beef patties

  • Shape ground beef into 4 thick patties.
  • Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned (they will finish cooking in the oven).

Step 3 – Sauté onions and mushrooms

  • In the same skillet, add onions and mushrooms.
  • Cook for 5 minutes until golden and soft.

Step 4 – Prepare creamy sauce

  • In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.

Step 5 – Layer the casserole

  1. Grease a baking dish.
  2. Layer sliced potatoes at the bottom.
  3. Add half of the onions and mushrooms.
  4. Place beef patties on top.
  5. Pour the creamy sauce evenly.
  6. Add remaining mushrooms and onions.
  7. Top generously with shredded cheese.

Step 6 – Bake

  • Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7 – Serve

  • Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

History of the Dish

Casseroles became popular in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, when quick family meals were in demand. They were often made with pantry staples like canned soups, potatoes, and cheese. The idea of combining hamburger steaks with potatoes and mushrooms likely originated from traditional meat-and-potato dishes of Europe, evolving into the baked, cheesy comfort food we enjoy today.

Benefits

  • High in protein from ground beef and cheese.
  • Energizing carbohydrates from potatoes.
  • Rich in calcium and vitamins from cheese and milk.
  • Mushrooms provide antioxidants and minerals like selenium.
  • Family-friendly one-dish meal, easy to prepare ahead.

Formation (Layers)

  1. Base: Thinly sliced potatoes
  2. Middle: Onions + mushrooms + beef patties
  3. Sauce: Cream of mushroom mixture
  4. Top: Golden melted cheese + mushrooms

Lovers of this Dish

This recipe is loved by:

  • Families who enjoy hearty comfort food
  • Cheese lovers craving melted goodness
  • Potato and beef enthusiasts
  • Busy cooks who love simple, oven-baked meals

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 of 4 portions)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Calcium: 220 mg

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Mushrooms is more than just a dish – it’s a warm, comforting family favorite. It represents the marriage of classic American casserole tradition with the timeless flavors of beef, potatoes, and cheese. Whether served at a weeknight dinner or as a potluck dish, it always satisfies.

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