Introduction
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that layers seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just need a comforting one-dish meal. With minimal prep and pantry staples, this casserole brings together everything you love about meat and potatoes in a rich, satisfying bake.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
1 small onion, diced
3–4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of cheddar)
½ cup milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Nonstick spray or butter for greasing
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onions are tender. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the condensed soup with milk until smooth.
Assemble the casserole:
Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the baking dish.
Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef layer.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Repeat all layers with the remaining ingredients.
Cover with foil and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Uncover, add extra cheese on top if desired, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Description
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food. Every forkful delivers creamy potatoes, juicy seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese in perfect harmony. The soup-based sauce adds richness, while the baked cheese topping provides a deliciously gooey finish. This dish is simple, nostalgic, and satisfying — ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day.
Tips
Use a mandoline slicer for thin, even potato slices that cook through evenly.
Precook potatoes slightly (steam or microwave for 3–5 minutes) if you want to reduce baking time.
Add a layer of sliced tomatoes or bell peppers for a fresh twist.
Use sharp cheddar for bolder flavor or a cheese blend for variety.
Add sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture for extra creaminess.
Variations
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Tex-Mex Style: Use taco seasoning in the beef, add black beans, and top with pepper jack cheese.
Bacon Lover’s: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon or sprinkle on top before baking.
Vegetable Addition: Add frozen peas, corn, or green beans between layers.
Cream Alternative: Use cream of chicken, celery, or cheddar soup depending on your flavor preference.
Correction
If the casserole turns out:
Undercooked: Potatoes may be too thick or not cooked long enough. Slice thinner or extend baking time.
Too runny: Reduce the milk slightly or let the casserole rest longer before serving.
Dry: Add a bit more soup or cheese in the middle layers to retain moisture.
Unevenly cooked: Ensure ingredients are spread evenly and potatoes are in a single flat layer per layer.
Enjoy
Serve this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole warm from the oven with a side salad, steamed veggies, or bread. It’s a satisfying, homestyle meal that delivers flavor and comfort in every bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a dish to pass, it’s sure to be a hit. Dig in and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness.