Hamburger Casserole Recipe (100-Year-Old)

Savor the Timeless Comfort of a 100-Year-Old Hamburger Casserole

Step back in time with this cherished 100-year-old hamburger casserole recipe, combining hearty ground beef with tender potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce topped with melted cheese.

This beloved family favorite has stood the test of time, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and satisfaction that makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or heartwarming family gatherings.

From its humble beginnings to its enduring presence on dinner tables across generations, this classic hamburger casserole recipe promises a delicious journey into traditional American comfort food. Ready to create lasting memories with this time-tested dish? Let's explore this wonderfully simple yet satisfying recipe.

Hamburger Casserole: A Century of Comfort Food Excellence

This 100-year-old hamburger casserole recipe brings together the wholesome goodness of ground beef and potatoes with a creamy sauce that's stood the test of time. More than just a meal, it's a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-crafted comfort food that anyone can master.

Here's your guide to recreating this time-honored dish, complete with expert tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this hearty hamburger casserole with a crisp garden salad, steamed green beans, or buttered corn for a complete meal. The casserole's rich flavors complement simple sides perfectly, making it an excellent centerpiece for any family dinner.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Hamburger Casserole:

1. Quality Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef (80/20 ratio) for the perfect balance of flavor and texture without excess grease.
2. Potato Perfection: Cut your potatoes into uniform dice-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole.
3. Cast Iron Magic: Using a cast-iron skillet adds a depth of flavor and provides excellent heat distribution for perfectly cooked potatoes.
4. Cheese Selection: While Provolone offers a classic taste, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or Swiss for variety.
5. Sauce Consistency: Whisk the cornstarch and milk together before adding to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.

Classic 100-Year-Old Hamburger Casserole Recipe:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Equipment: Cast-iron skillet or casserole dish, large mixing bowl, measuring cups

This timeless hamburger casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal that's been cherished for generations.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped green bell peppers (optional)
• 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4-5 medium potatoes)
• 1 cup whole milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 ounces Provolone cheese, sliced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional enhancement)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional enhancement)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Skillet: Heat your cast-iron skillet over medium heat. If using a casserole dish, preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the Meat Mixture: Cook the ground beef, onions, and bell peppers (if using) until the meat is nicely browned and the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Season the Base: Add salt, pepper, and optional seasonings to taste, ensuring the meat mixture is well-flavored.
4. Add the Potatoes: Incorporate the diced potatoes into the meat mixture, cover the skillet, and cook on low-medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Create the Sauce: Whisk together the milk and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture over the meat and potatoes.
6. Finish the Dish: For cast-iron cooking, stir the sauce into the mixture. For casserole dish preparation, transfer everything to the baking dish before adding the sauce.
7. Add the Cheese: Layer the Provolone cheese slices over the top of the mixture.
8. Final Cooking: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbling.

Ready to Relish!

This hamburger casserole embodies the essence of home cooking, offering a taste of history with every bite. The combination of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese creates a comfort food masterpiece that's sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Storage Solutions:

Store any leftover hamburger casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed. For best results, add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain the creamy texture. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months – simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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