Aunt Charlene'S Hamburger Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory mushroom soup, perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Crumble the ground beef into the bottom of a large casserole dish.
- Sprinkle chopped onions, salt, and pepper over the beef.
- Cover with a layer of peeled and diced potatoes.
- Spread cream of mushroom soup over the potatoes.
- Layer the beef, onions, potatoes, and soup repeatedly until the dish is full.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 400°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of shredded cheese between the potatoes and soup. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you have leftover vegetables, such as carrots or peas, they can be added for extra nutrition. Make sure to adjust the salt accordingly if using canned soups that are already seasoned.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with sweet and spicy meatballs for a comforting dinner spread. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Charlene'S Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 802 calories, with 13g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (33% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 845mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. For a lighter option, consider using a vegetable broth mixed with sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess without the canned soup.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, or bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).