What’s your favorite dish? Think lasagna, but with way less fuss and a whole lot more hamburger!Hamburger Casserole 7-Is one of those recipes that’s been passed down through my family for generations, and it is a family recipe? What is a crowd Is it like a warm hug on the plate, especially on those chilly evenings when you just want something? Is it easy to make something satisfying I always think of my grandma when I make this – it was her signature dish, and it always made us laugh. The layers of flavor, the cheesy goodness… it’s just a “chefs kiss” Is this one of those recipes that gets asked time and time again?
What is a 7-layer Hamburger casserole?
What is this magical thing?Hamburger Casserole 7-What is a deconstructed hamburger? Is ground beef seasoned to perfection, layered with creamy sauce, cheese, and your favorite topping? What are your favorite burger toppings Each layer adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a symphony of deliciousness in every layer. What’s the best part about this recipe? What are some good Old Fashioned comfort food recipes? My version includes tater tots on top, but you can also use crescent rolls! Is it essential to make this once and enjoy?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I begin? There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this.Hamburger Casserole 7-.
First off, the *flavor* is incredible! The savory GROUND BEEF, the tangy tomato sauce, the creamy cheese… it’s a perfect combination of tastes that will have your taste buds singing.
Second, it’s so incredibly *simple* to make. Seriously, if you can brown ground beef, you can make this casserole. I’m not kidding, it’s that easy! It is the perfect meal to make on a weeknight when you have lots of responsibilities and not much time.
Third, it’s incredibly *cost-effective*. Ground beef is a relatively inexpensive protein, and the other ingredients are pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. So you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Fourth, it’s totally *versatile*. You can easily customize the toppings to suit your family’s preferences. Don’t like onions? Leave them out! Want to add some mushrooms? Go for it! The possibilities are endless! This is what I love most about this recipe – it’s so adaptable. I’ve made it with different cheeses, different veggies, and even different types of ground meat. Every time, it’s a winner!
I’ve tried tons of casserole recipes over the years, and this one is a standout because it’s just so darn reliable. It always turns out perfectly, and it always gets rave reviews. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients. What’s not to love?
How do I make Hamburger Casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this Hamburger Casserole 7-Is it easier than you think? How do you brown Ground Beef? Then, you’ll layer the ingredients in a baking dish, starting with the ground beef, then adding the remaining ingredients. What are your favorite toppings for tomato sauce? What should I do if I bake it in the oven until golden brown? What is the hardest part of waiting for it to cool down enough to eat? How do you ensure that every bite is packed with flavor and texture?
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef Layer: For The Ground Chicken Layer.
• 1 pound ground beef: I usually go for 80/20, it has the best flavor, but you can use leaner beef if you prefer.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onions work best, but red onion will also be just fine.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Fresh garlic is great, but garlic can be a convenient shortcut.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a nice depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
What is the sauce layer?
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: You can also use marinara sauce if you prefer a chunkier sauce.
• 1/2 cup ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor.
What is the cheese layer?
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Can you use any cheese you like? I sometimes mix it with a Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. Can you use colby jack cheese?
For the Toppings Layer: What is the difference
• 1 (32 ounce) bag frozen tater tots: These go on top of the casserole. Can you make mini crescent rolls?
• Optional toppings: Diced tomatoes, lettuce, sliced pickles, cheese, bacon bits… The sky’s the limit.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking? I also like to line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for extra insurance. I usually prep the pan while the oven preheats, so it’s ready to go when I need it.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. What is the best way to break up a casserole? I always use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to .25″ plates. I then cover the plate with paper towels to soak up any liquid. What is the remaining grease How do I keep a casserole from being too oily?
Step 3: Add Onions & Seasonings
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the onion powder, garlic powder and salt. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because it infuses the beef with flavor. I love the smell of onions and garlic cooking together, it always makes my kitchen feel so cozy!
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the tomato sauce, ketchup, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined. This is your base sauce and adds a lot of flavor. I like to taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of tomatoes. If you like a spicier sauce, you can add some red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
How do you spread the ground beef mixture in a baking dish? The tomato sauce should be poured over ground beef. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the sauce. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. Make sure they’re evenly spaced so they all get nice and crispy.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. When cheese melts, it becomes bubbly. How do ovens work? If the tater tots start to get brown, you can cover the casserole with foil for the last 10 minutes. If you want to serve them warm, cover them with a non-stick pan. How long does it take to bake The tater tots should be brown and crispy, and the casserole should have been heated throughout.
Step 7: Add Toppings & Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before adding your desired toppings. I usually add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickles, and a dollop of sour cream. What is the best way to serve this casserole warm? I like to serve it with a side of coleslaw or slaw to balance out the richness of the sauce.
What is the best way to serve it?
This Hamburger Casserole 7-Is a meal in itself, but it’s even better with the right sides.
For a casual weeknight dinner:Serve it with a side of green salad or coleslaw. The acidity of the salad or coleslaw will help cut through the richness of a casserole.
For a potluck or party: Bring along a bowl of potato salad or macaroni salad. These classic sides are always a hit and complement the flavors of the casserole perfectly.
For a cozy movie night: Serve it with a bowl of popcorn and your favorite drinks. It’s the perfect comfort food for a night in!
My family loves this casserole served with garlic bread or toasted crescent rolls. You can never go wrong!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your 7-Layer Hamburger Casserole
Want to take your 7-Layer Hamburger Casserole to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:
Ground Beef Prep: Don’t skip browning the ground beef! This step is essential for developing flavor. Make sure to drain off any excess grease to prevent the casserole from being too oily. I have tried ground turkey before, and it still tastes delicious!
Sauce Customization: Feel free to experiment with the sauce. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or a spoonful of brown sugar for sweetness. You can also use different types of tomato sauce, such as marinara or tomato paste.
Cheese Swaps: Use any cheese you like! Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack are all great options. I even like to use a blend of cheeses for extra flavor and texture.
Tater Tot Tips: For extra crispy tater tots, try baking them on a wire rack before adding them to the casserole. This will allow air to circulate around them, ensuring they get nice and crunchy. You can also add some shredded cheese over the tater tots.
Topping Variations: Get creative with the toppings! Add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, sour cream, bacon bits, or anything else your heart desires. The possibilities are endless!
I have made this 7-Layer Hamburger Casserole hundreds of times, and I still learn something new every time I make it. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover 7-Layer Hamburger Casserole (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat it:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the casserole cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the tater tots may not be as crispy.
I have found that the casserole tastes best when reheated in the oven. It helps to keep the cheese melty and the tater tots crispy. No one loves soggy tater tots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My family’s cherished 7-Layer Hamburger Casserole recipe. It’s a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I know that you and your family will enjoy it as much as mine does. It’s one of those recipes that just makes you feel good from the inside out. And who doesn’t need a little more of that in their life? It’s a classic recipe, one you are sure to enjoy, so if you like this recipe, I would suggest my other family favorite recipes, like my chicken pot pie.
I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below! And if you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!
How to Make the Best 7-Layer Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef Lean ground beef recommended
- 1 package Onion soup mix
- 1 can Cream of mushroom soup Condensed
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 2 lb Potatoes Peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup Milk
- 0.25 cup Chopped green onions For garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in onion soup mix.
- In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the potato slices in the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Top with half of the soup mixture and half of the cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, ground beef, soup mixture, and cheese.
- Pour milk over the casserole.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
