When the craving for hearty comfort food strikes, few dishes can compete with a warm casserole straight from the oven. Picture this: you walk into your kitchen, and the rich, savory aroma of seasoned ground beef cooking with onions welcomes you. Just as the sizzle subsides, you layer tender potato slices, all topped with a luscious tomato sauce. This is not just another weeknight meal; this is the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup, a one-dish wonder that transforms simple ingredients into pure satisfaction.
Whether you’re looking for an easy family dinner or a dish that will impress guests, this budget-friendly casserole is versatile enough to cater to all tastes. You might even find it becomes a weekly staple in your home. Ready to dive into comfort? Let’s get cooking!
Why is the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Atmosphere: The aroma of this dish brings everyone to the table, making dinner time a cherished family moment.
Budget-Friendly: With minimal ingredients, you’ll keep costs down without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Preparation: This recipe allows you to whip up a hearty meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Picky eaters will love the flavor-packed layers of beef and potatoes, making it a sure crowd-pleaser!
Versatile Base: This casserole is a great canvas; feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap proteins as you desire.
Enjoy the warmth of home with a dish that speaks comfort! If you’re interested in storing leftovers, check out our storage or make-ahead tips for easy meal planning.
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole Ingredients
• Get ready to savor the flavors of the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup!
For the Casserole
- Ground Beef (2.5 lbs, 80/20 Chuck) – Offers rich flavor and juiciness; choose leaner beef if preferred, but keep an eye on fat drippage.
- Potatoes (3.5 cups, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds) – Provides a hearty base and absorbs the sauce beautifully; ensure slices are uniform for even cooking.
- Onions (1/2 cup, finely diced) – Adds sweet depth; shallots make a nice, milder alternative if you prefer.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) – Boosts savory notes; fresh minced garlic can add a punchier flavor if you’re feeling bold.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor; sprinkle generously as you layer, ensuring every bite is seasoned just right.
- Tomato Juice (2 cups, Campbell’s) – Forms the luscious sauce base; homemade tomato purée can enhance freshness if desired.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Adds aromatic undertones; remember to remove it before serving to avoid unintended bitterness.
For Serving
- Fresh Green Salad – A crisp side complements the casserole beautifully; try it dressed in ranch or Italian dressing.
- Warm Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up that delightful tomato sauce!
Feel free to gather these ingredients and embark on your journey to craft this heartwarming dish today!
How to Make Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup
Prep Ingredients: Begin by peeling your potatoes and slicing them into 1/4-inch rounds. Finely dice the onions. Preheat your oven to 350°F to get it nice and warm for baking.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef. Stir it occasionally until the fat renders, then throw in the diced onions and cook until they soften, about 3-5 minutes.
Season & Combine: Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and garlic powder into the skillet, mixing to combine the flavors. Transfer this savory mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, giving it a hearty base.
Layer: Next, gently arrange the sliced potatoes over the beef mixture, slightly overlapping them for an even coverage. Don’t forget to season this layer too for that flavorful depth!
Add the Sauce: Pour the tomato juice generously over the potatoes, ensuring everything is covered. Tuck the bay leaf into the mix for that extra aromatic boost.
Cover & Bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 1 hour, then check the tenderness of the potatoes; they should pierce easily with a fork.
Serve: Once baked, give it a 5-minute rest before serving. Make sure to remove the bay leaf before enjoying your warm, comforting casserole!
Optional: Top with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole
Slice Evenly: Make sure your potato slices are uniform at 1/4-inch thick to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole.
Don’t Skip Seasoning: Season every layer, including the beef and the potatoes, to create a depth of flavor that elevates the best hamburger and potato casserole.
Grease Control: Drain excess grease from the ground beef after browning to prevent a greasy casserole that could dampen the enjoyment of your dish.
Tomato Juice Swap: Consider using homemade tomato purée for a fresher taste compared to store-bought tomato juice, enhancing the overall flavor of your casserole.
Optional Veggies: Feel free to add some diced bell peppers or carrots between the layers for a nutritious twist that can delight even picky eaters!
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup Variations
Feel free to take this comforting casserole to the next level by incorporating your flavor preferences!
Turkey Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without losing moisture.
This variation allows you to enjoy the same fulfilling experience while keeping things leaner.Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini for vibrant color and extra nutrition.
The addition of vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also makes it a more wholesome meal.Cheesy Bliss: Sprinkle shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, on top before baking for a gooey, melty finish.
Who can resist that warm, cheesy goodness mingling with the savory layers?Spicy Upgrade: For some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Let the spices awaken the taste buds, turning comfort food into something exciting!Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or oregano into the sauce for a fragrant twist.
Fresh flavors can brighten the dish and introduce an aromatic wonder that lingers with each bite.Creamy Addition: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese with the meat for a rich texture.
This creamy element creates an enticing contrast to the casserole’s layers and enhances the overall taste.Crispy Top: For a crunchy layer, top the casserole with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
The delightful crunch adds texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, hearty filling.Sweet Potatoes: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, nutritious alternative.
This not only alters the flavor profile but also enriches the meal with added vitamins.
With these variations, you can tailor the recipe to suit any taste preference or dietary need!
How to Store and Freeze Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors actually deepen and blend nicely as it sits.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; ensure the casserole cools completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes covered with foil to maintain moisture, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Leftover Usage: Reimagining leftovers can be fun! Try pairing with a fresh salad or adding a sprinkle of cheese before reheating for an extra touch in your next meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and layer your potatoes, as well as brown the ground beef and onions, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepared beef mixture and sliced potatoes separately in airtight containers. To maintain quality and prevent browning, add a splash of lemon juice to the potato slices before storing. When ready to bake, layer the ingredients in your baking dish, pour the tomato juice over, add the bay leaf, and cover tightly with foil. Bake as directed, and you’ll enjoy a hearty family meal with minimal effort after a busy day!
What to Serve with Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup?
Elevate your dining experience by combining flavors and textures that delight the palate alongside your warm casserole.
Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with crunchy romaine and cherry tomatoes balances the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully. The tangy dressing adds that perfect contrast!
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce, making every meal feel complete and comforting.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the savory-rich casserole perfectly, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a fresh, vibrant touch to your plate, enhancing both nutrition and visual appeal. Its gentle flavor pairs well with the casserole’s heartiness.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted with herbs provides a sweet, caramelized taste that complements the savory dish.
Apple Sauce: This unexpected pairing offers a delightful contrast in flavor, introducing a sweet, fruity note that brightens the meal.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw brings an enjoyable texture that refreshes the palate, making each bite of casserole feel lighter.
Herbal Iced Tea: This refreshing drink, cool and fragrant, offers a perfect finish that balances the richness of the casserole with a hint of sweetness.
Prepare to enjoy a comforting meal made unforgettable with these delightful pairings!
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
What are the best potatoes to use for the casserole?
Absolutely! For the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They provide a creamy texture and splendid flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes as they don’t soften well during baking, leading to an undesired texture.
How do I store leftovers from the casserole?
You can store your casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld, making the leftovers even more delicious! Just remember to reheat it gently to retain moisture.
Can I freeze the casserole for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months! Make sure it cools completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat it again, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my potatoes aren’t cooking evenly?
If you find that your potatoes aren’t cooking evenly, ensure they are sliced to the proper thickness of 1/4-inch. If they still seem undercooked after the baking time, cover the casserole again and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking for tenderness with a fork.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. When you’re ready to cook, remove it from the fridge, let it sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature, then follow the baking instructions as usual.
Is this casserole suitable for allergy considerations?
Make sure to check for any allergies with your family or guests, particularly for common allergens like beef or onion. You can modify the recipe by using ground turkey or chicken and substituting onions with garlic or herbs for flavor, making it adaptable to various dietary needs!
Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole with Tomato Soup Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling your potatoes and slicing them into 1/4-inch rounds. Finely dice the onions. Preheat your oven to 350°F to get it nice and warm for baking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef. Stir it occasionally until the fat renders, then add the diced onions and cook until they soften, about 3-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and garlic powder into the skillet, mixing to combine the flavors. Transfer this mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Gently arrange the sliced potatoes over the beef mixture, slightly overlapping them. Season this layer for depth!
- Pour the tomato juice over the potatoes, ensuring everything is covered. Tuck the bay leaf into the mix.
- Tightly cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1 hour, then check the tenderness of the potatoes.
- Once baked, give it a 5-minute rest before serving and remember to remove the bay leaf.