If you’re looking for a wholesome and comforting dish that’s easy to make and crowd-pleasing, this Healthy Hamburger and Potato Casserole is your answer. It’s a lighter twist on a classic comfort food, balancing hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy layers with a healthy spin that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
This casserole is the perfect weekday dinner hero. It’s simple to prepare, packs tons of protein and nutrients, and delivers on that warm, satisfying feeling we all crave from a home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s kid-approved and a hit with grown-ups alike!
Imagine coming home to a bubbling casserole that fills your kitchen with savory aromas and promises to feed your family deliciously while keeping things light. Ready to give it a try?
Recipe Highlights
Healthy Hamburger and Potato Casserole combines the classic flavors of seasoned beef and tender potatoes with a creamy yet lightened-up sauce. This dish is perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Exciting Story
Let me tell you, the first time I made this casserole, I was nervous—it was one of those “throw everything together and hope for the best” experiments. But when I pulled it out of the oven, my husband said it looked like a diner special, and my kids cleaned their plates in record time. Now, it’s a regular request in our household, especially when we’re craving something hearty yet guilt-free.
Why This Healthy Hamburger and Potato Casserole?
Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist
- Lower Calorie, Full Flavor: Made with lean ground beef and a lightened-up sauce.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Easy to Customize: Add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your family’s taste.
Tips
- Potato Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin slices that cook faster.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- Layering: Ensure the potatoes are evenly spread for consistent cooking.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Turkey: Swap the beef for lean ground turkey to reduce fat.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
- Low-Carb: Use thinly sliced turnips or zucchini instead of potatoes.
Make a Healthier Version
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk and vegan cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend.
- Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and season sparingly.
Closing
And there you have it! A wholesome, flavorful Healthy Hamburger and Potato Casserole that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this dish hits the mark every time. Be sure to share your success and check out our other healthier comfort food recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking. - What’s the best way to reheat?
Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual servings. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or lentils. - How can I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Slice them thin and layer them consistently for even cooking. - What goes well with this dish?
A crisp side salad or roasted vegetables complement this casserole beautifully.
Healthy Hamburger and Potato Casserole
Description
If you’re looking for a wholesome and comforting dish that’s easy to make and crowd-pleasing, this Healthy Hamburger and Potato Casserole is your answer.
Ingredients
- 6 medium-sized potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion peeled and diced
- 4 garlic cloves peeled and minced
- 2 carrots peeled and shredded
- 1 can of corn or one bag of frozen corn
- 1-8 ounce bag shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
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Add ground beef, onions, garlic, and carrots to a large skillet. Cook until meat is browned and vegetables are sauteed. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
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Peel potatoes and slice into thin circles. Line the bottom of a 9 by 13 pan with half of them.
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Dot the potatoes with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
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Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over top of the potatoes. Using a spatula, spread evenly over the pan.
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Pour corn over top of the meat.
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Arrange another layer of potatoes over top of the corn.
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Dot the potatoes with butter and sprinkle cheese evenly overtop the casserole dish.
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Pour the heavy whipping cream over top of the casserole.
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Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes or until potatoes are soft.
Nutrition
- Calories: 461
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 19g