The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility, making it incredibly easy to customize to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. For a nutritional boost and added color, consider stirring in a cup of frozen vegetables such as peas, corn, or diced carrots along with the condensed soups. If you’re a fan of bell peppers, a finely diced green or red bell pepper can be sautéed with the onions for an extra layer of flavor and freshness. Beyond cheddar and Monterey Jack, experiment with other cheese blends like Colby, mozzarella, or even a touch of spicy pepper jack for a kick. For a different texture, consider adding a crunchy topping in the last 10 minutes of baking, such as crushed crackers, breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter, or crispy fried onions. If you want to change up the protein, ground turkey or even a plant-based crumble can be substituted for the ground beef. For a creamier, richer sauce, you can swap out one of the condensed soups for a homemade béchamel sauce, or for a bolder flavor, a can of condensed cheddar cheese soup can replace one of the cream soups. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!
Storage and Reheating
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal and stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers. To store any uneaten portions, allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer individual servings to airtight containers. The casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this casserole freezes exceptionally well. After cooling, you can freeze the entire casserole in its baking dish (if freezer-safe) tightly wrapped in several layers of plastic wrap and foil, or portion it into individual freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When it comes to reheating, the oven is generally the best method for maintaining the casserole’s texture and ensuring the cheese gets properly melty again. For a whole casserole from the refrigerator, cover it loosely with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, you can also use the oven or opt for the microwave for convenience. Microwave individual servings on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly heated. Be careful not to overheat in the microwave, as this can sometimes make the potatoes a bit dry. If the casserole seems a little dry upon reheating, you can add a splash of milk or broth over the top before warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be going into the oven cold. This makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What kind of potatoes work best for this casserole?
Russet potatoes are generally recommended because their starch content makes them ideal for absorbing the creamy sauce and becoming tender. They also slice well. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice; they offer a slightly creamier texture and buttery flavor, and they hold their shape nicely when sliced. Avoid very waxy potatoes like new potatoes, as they might not absorb the sauce as effectively.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
If you love a little heat, there are several ways to spice up this casserole. You can add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture along with the other seasonings. Another option is to use a can of condensed cheddar cheese soup with jalapeños, or simply stir in a tablespoon of diced pickled jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the beef mixture. Using pepper jack cheese for part of the topping will also introduce a pleasant warmth.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef to make a lighter version of this casserole. Ensure you use a ground turkey with at least 7% fat for better flavor and moisture, or consider adding a little extra olive oil when browning if using very lean turkey. You may also want to increase the seasoning slightly, as ground turkey can be milder in flavor than beef
