Thursday, October 18, 2012

Hamburger Casserole


A popular southern tradition we hold in the highest regard is the passing down of recipes from generation to generation. Some of these recipes are secret and are only shared amongst family but others are one we make for potlucks, dinner parties, and church dinners. These recipes are the younger generation’s ties to the history of their family.
One recipe Mammy, my mother’s mom, passed down to my mom and which she has passed down to me is what I know as Hamburger Casserole. The recipe has changed names but the ingredients have stayed the same with some new additions.

WARNING: If you have a meat and potato kind of person in your family, this is a recipe that will keep them asking for more.

So here’s my Mammy’s recipe with my twist. Hope you enjoy.

Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients:

1 lb. ground lean beef (you can use ground chuck or ground round if you prefer)
3 medium potatoes

2 cans of Peas and Carrots (can use one bag of frozen, if you choose)

2 cans Tomato Sauce (you can use Tomato Soup as well)

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded

2 tbsp. Seasoning Salt

2 tbsp. butter, melted

Salt and pepper to taste

 Directions:

1)      Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grab a 13x9 inch baking dish.

2)      In a skillet, brown lean beef and add onion and garlic to sauté. Drain mixture of excess grease once beef is completely browned.

3)      Wash, peel and dice your potatoes. Once done place the potatoes in a stock pot, add just enough water to cover the top of the potatoes and place on stove to cook. You will need to cook potatoes until tender. You should be able to easily stick a fork in them.

4)      While your potatoes are cooking take your 13x9 inch baking dish, pour beef mixture on the bottom of the baking dish and spread out an even layer. Sprinkle the 2 tbsp. of seasoning salt over top.

5)      Once the potatoes are done cooking, drain off any excess water. Layer the potatoes over top of the beef mixture. Take your melted butter and drizzle over top of your potatoes. Add your salt and pepper.

6)      In a mixing bowl, combine your peas and carrots and tomato sauce; once mixed, pour over potatoes. (Note: If you want to thin the mixture out some, add a little water and mix again.)

7)      Bake in oven for 25- 30 minutes until edges are bubbling. Pull casserole dish out and sprinkle cheese over top. Put back into oven for an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

 

 

 

 CHALLENGE FOR YOU THE READER: Since family recipes are ones we like to enjoy and share. Leave me a comment with your favorite family recipe/ or name of dish you and your family enjoy!!

 

 

 

 

 

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