This Savory Herb Hamburger Potato Casserole is a cozy, one-dish wonder that brings comfort food to your table in under an hour. Layered with tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal.
Ground beef provides a hearty base and savory flavor. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best balance of taste and moisture. Potatoes are the star, adding texture and a subtle sweetness. Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly. Onions and garlic bring aromatic depth and richness. Cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a golden crust. Beef broth and sour cream form a creamy sauce that ties everything together. Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables, while thyme and rosemary add earthiness and warmth. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts. A crusty bread roll would be perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray to keep everything from sticking. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil, then toss in the onions and garlic. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they're soft and fragrant—just about three minutes.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want it nicely browned, which should take about six to seven minutes. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and let it cook for another two minutes to really bring out those flavors.
Now, in your prepared baking dish, lay half of the potato slices across the bottom. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over this layer of potatoes. Top the beef with the remaining potato slices, covering it completely.
In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth and sour cream until smooth. Pour this mixture over the casserole, making sure it spreads evenly. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and keep baking for another 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is a lovely golden brown. Let the casserole cool for about five minutes before serving to let everything set nicely.
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