This Savory Hamburger Potato Delight is a cozy, satisfying meal that combines tender slices of potatoes with flavorful ground beef and gooey cheese. It's perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, offering a warm embrace of comfort food goodness.
Ground beef provides the hearty base for this dish, adding depth and a savory note. Russet potatoes are ideal here for their starchy texture, which helps them hold up in the oven while absorbing flavors. The onion and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic undertones, making each bite more flavorful. Olive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness. Beef broth keeps everything moist and enhances the beef flavor. A touch of salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika elevates the seasoning profile, giving it a deliciously complex taste. Cheddar cheese melts into creamy layers, while sour cream adds a tangy finish. Finally, a bit of butter on top helps to crisp up the cheese and potatoes for a perfect finish.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This dish will hold all the delicious layers we're about to create. Next, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them cook until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
Once the onions and garlic are ready, add in the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. When the beef is nicely browned, drain off any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika, mixing well to coat the beef in these spices.
Now it’s time to start layering. Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spoon half of your beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out to cover them. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and another cup of cheese. Pour the beef broth evenly over everything, allowing it to seep through and flavor the layers. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
After the initial baking, remove the foil and dot the top with butter. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. This step ensures the cheese gets bubbly and starts to brown, while the potatoes become tender. Once it’s done, let it cool slightly before topping with dollops of sour cream. This final touch adds a creamy and tangy contrast to the savory layers.