
Get ready for a cozy meal with this cheesy potato and hamburger bake. We're talking layers of soft Yukon gold potatoes, juicy ground beef that's packed with flavor, and gooey Colby Jack cheese all tied together with creamy mushroom soup. This one's a real crowd-pleaser and super easy to whip up for your family or friends. Every bite is warm, comforting goodness!
INGREDIENTS
- 3 cups freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese (divided): Makes sure every bite is melty and tasty.
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper: Brings a mild kick and wakes up all the flavors.
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Brings everything together so it tastes just right.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Levels up that beefy taste.
- 1 cup half and half: Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup: This is what makes the sauce super creamy and holds the whole thing together.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: For that cozy, mouthwatering smell and taste.
- 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and a little depth.
- 2 pounds lean ground beef: The heart of the dish, keeps it super filling.
- 2.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes: Gives the layers a creamy bite and keeps things soft.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Boost: Sprinkle some cayenne or throw jalapeños on top for extra heat.
- Health Kick: Switch out the beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want something lighter.
- More Cheesy: Lay on some Monterey Jack or Cheddar along with Colby Jack for super cheesy layers.
- Add More Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to change it up and add color.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 9:
- When it’s finished, let it rest for 15 minutes before digging in—it will be hot! Call everyone to the table and enjoy those cheesy, warm layers.
- Step 8:
- Pop the foil off and bake another 20 minutes. Wait 'til the cheese gets bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 7:
- Keep adding layers—do this two more times so your last layer is topped off with all the leftover Colby Jack.
- Step 6:
- Layer on a third of the meat mix over potatoes, scatter on ¾ cup cheese, then pour a third of the soup mixture right on top.
- Step 5:
- Drain the potato slices. Drop about a third of them into the bottom of your greased pan so it covers the whole thing.
- Step 4:
- Grab a bowl and mix the canned mushroom soup, onion powder, salt, half and half, and pepper till smooth. Set it aside.
- Step 3:
- Brown your ground beef in a big pot on medium-high heat, tossing in garlic and onions as you go. Break up the beef with a spoon so it cooks evenly. Drain the fat when it's done.
- Step 2:
- Crank your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish and get it ready.
- Step 1:
- Cut the Yukon potatoes into thin slices (about ⅛-inch thick). Stick ‘em in water so they don’t brown while you prep everything else.
Serving and Storage Tips
- This dish is filling enough on its own, but if you want some greens, toss together a salad or steam up some veggies.
- Got leftovers? Pop them in a sealed container in the fridge and they’ll keep for 3 days. Nuke them in the microwave or throw them in the oven to reheat.
- If you want to prep ahead, put the casserole together, cover it up, and chill in the fridge for up to a day before baking, or freeze it for 2 months. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake fresh!
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Rachael Ray: “Craving a crunchy finish? Scatter some herby breadcrumbs over the top about 10 minutes before it’s done!”
- Chef Ina Garten: “Yukon gold potatoes make this dish extra creamy and balance out all that cheesy meatiness.”
- Chef Bobby Flay: “Sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper with every layer for flavor from top to bottom. Don’t be shy!”