Hamburger and Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Easy, Cheap, Delicious

My grandmother, bless her heart, wasn’t winning any Michelin stars, but she had a magic touch when it came to feeding a crowd on a budget. I can still picture her bustling around her tiny kitchen, humming a hymn, as she prepped this very dish. The aroma of browned hamburger, creamy mushroom soup, and melting cheese would fill the house, promising a comforting, satisfying meal that always brought everyone to the table. It wasn’t fancy, but it was love on a plate.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 baking dish
• Dietary Type: Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup, mixed according to directions
• 4-5 medium potatoes
• 1 lb hamburger (ground beef)
• 1/2 cup cheese (shredded)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garlic salt, if desired

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Skillet
• 9×13 inch baking pan

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the potatoes. Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds, similar to thick-cut potato chips.
2. Place the sliced potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork, but they should still hold their shape.
3. While the potatoes are boiling, cook the hamburger in a skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, until it’s fully browned and crumbly. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Prepare the cream of mushroom soup according to the can’s directions, typically by adding water or milk. Heat the soup in a saucepan or microwave until it is warmed through. Heating the soup beforehand helps prevent it from being lumpy when mixed with the other ingredients.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Lightly grease the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Pour a small amount of the prepared cream of mushroom soup into the pan, just enough to coat the bottom.
7. Layer the slightly tender potatoes evenly over the soup in the baking pan.
8. Spread the cooked and drained hamburger evenly over the potatoes.
9. Pour the remaining cream of mushroom soup over the potatoes and hamburger, ensuring everything is well-covered. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with garlic salt if desired.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
11. Remove the baking pan from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
12. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
13. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, consider browning the hamburger with a diced onion and a clove of minced garlic.
• To prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pan, you can use a non-stick baking spray instead of greasing it.
• If you find that the top is browning too quickly before the potatoes are fully cooked, you can tent the baking pan with aluminum foil.
• For a richer flavor, substitute some of the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery soup or a homemade cheese sauce.
• Make-ahead tip: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Hamburger and Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes dish is best served warm. It pairs perfectly with a side salad or french-style green beans, as suggested in the original recipe. For a heartier meal, you can serve it alongside a crusty bread for soaking up the delicious soup.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until heated through, or bake the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You may want to add a little extra cheese on top before reheating for extra gooeyness. While freezing is possible, be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. Reheat thoroughly if frozen. Do not leave at room temperature for more than two hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	371 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	153 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	17 g	26%
Saturated Fat	6.2 g	30%
Cholesterol	56.8 mg	18%
Sodium	862.8 mg	35%
Total Carbohydrate	32.4 g	10%
Dietary Fiber	3.1 g	12%
Sugars	2.6 g	N/A
Protein	22 g	43%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat alternative or cooked lentils.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the hamburger while cooking.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or frozen peas, to add more nutrients and flavor. Sauté them with the hamburger before layering into the casserole.
• Creamy Texture: Substitute half of the cream of mushroom soup with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, richer flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use canned potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use canned sliced potatoes as a shortcut. Drain and rinse them well before adding them to the casserole. Reduce the initial boiling time, or skip it altogether.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Many brands offer gluten-free options.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?
A: Ensure the hamburger is well-drained after cooking, and don’t overcook the potatoes during the initial boiling step.

Q: Can I add breadcrumbs to the topping?
A: Yes, sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter over the cheese before the final bake for a crispy topping.

Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to hamburger.

Final Thoughts

I hope this simple yet satisfying recipe for Hamburger and Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes brings as much comfort and joy to your table as it has to mine over the years. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own! Feel free to share your feedback and photos – I’d love to see your creations. And if you’re looking for a refreshing drink to complement this hearty dish, try a crisp apple cider or a light-bodied red wine. Happy cooking!