Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: Family Favorite

Crafting a comforting hamburger potato casserole brings warmth to any dinner table.

Layers of hearty ingredients promise a satisfying meal everyone will adore.

Russet potatoes and seasoned ground beef create a classic combination that feels like home.

Cheese melts perfectly between each delicious layer, adding richness to every bite.

Simple ingredients blend seamlessly in this no-fuss recipe that takes minimal effort.

Home cooks will appreciate how quickly this dish comes together without complicated techniques.

A single pan delivers maximum flavor and minimal cleanup, making dinner both delicious and convenient.

Jump into this recipe and savor every mouthwatering moment!

Hamburger Potato Casserole Must-Have Comfort Food Qualities

  • Simplify Meal Prep: Combine ground beef, potatoes, and creamy soup in one dish for a hassle-free dinner that requires minimal chopping and cleanup.
  • Comfort Food Champion: Packed with hearty ingredients like beef, potatoes, and melted cheese, this casserole delivers rich, satisfying flavors that warm you from the inside out.
  • Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Picky eaters will love the cheesy, savory combination that makes vegetables and protein go down easy, creating a meal everyone at the table enjoys.
  • Budget-Friendly Feast: Affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and pantry staples come together to create a filling meal that stretches your grocery budget without compromising taste.

Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole Success

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that provides the main protein for this comforting casserole.
Vegetables:
  • Onions, Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add depth and savory notes to the beef mixture.
Binding and Creamy Elements:
  • Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, Milk: A classic combination that creates a rich, creamy sauce to hold the casserole together.
  • Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and melty cheese that adds a golden, tangy topping to the dish.
Starch Component:
  • Potatoes: Sliced potatoes form the base layers, providing a hearty and filling foundation for the casserole.
Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Step-by-Step for Baking Potato Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Crumble ground beef into the pan, cooking until it’s completely browned and no pink remains.

Drain away any excess fat to keep the dish light and delicious.

Ingredients:
  • Ground beef
  • Skillet
  • Spatula for breaking up meat

Step 2: Prepare Flavor Base

Drizzle olive oil into the same skillet and sauté:
  • Diced onions
  • Minced garlic

Cook until onions become translucent and fragrant, releasing their sweet, savory aroma.

Step 3: Season the Meat Mixture

Combine the browned beef with sautéed vegetables.

Sprinkle in:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Optional herbs like thyme or parsley

Stir thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • Whole milk
  • Dash of black pepper

Blend until smooth and no lumps remain.

Step 5: Build Casserole Layers

Grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Create alternating layers:
  • Thinly sliced potatoes
  • Seasoned beef mixture
  • Creamy soup sauce

Repeat layers to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Add Cheesy Topping

Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, creating a golden, melty surface.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Slide into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 1 hour.

Remove foil for the final 15 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Cut into hearty squares and enjoy!

Tips for Creamy, Hearty Hamburger Casserole

  • Brown meat thoroughly to develop rich, deep taste and enhance overall casserole complexity.
  • Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Sprinkle cheese during last 15 minutes of baking for perfect golden, crispy top without burning.
  • Replace ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based crumbles for lighter protein alternative.
  • Assemble casserole in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal prep.

Potato Casserole Variations for Your Next Batch

  • Vegetarian Potato Casserole: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a protein-packed meatless version.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content and create a keto-friendly option.
  • Spicy Mexican-Style Casserole: Add diced green chilies, taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

Suggestions for Serving Hamburger Potato Casserole

  • Comfort Food Companion: Pair this hearty hamburger potato casserole with a crisp green salad to balance the rich flavors and add freshness to your meal.
  • Protein Power-Up: Serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted broccoli to boost the nutritional value and create a well-rounded dinner plate.
  • Game Night Delight: Cut into smaller squares and serve as a satisfying appetizer during family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends.
  • Family-Style Feast: Complement the casserole with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and make the meal even more filling.

Proper Storage for Hamburger Potato Casserole Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350F, cover with foil, and warm for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.
  • Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm and steaming.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of ground meat in this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork for variety and different flavor profiles.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. You can also freeze it for later use, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, low-fat cream of mushroom soup, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to increase nutritional value.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Double-check ingredient labels to be certain.

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Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe


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4.7 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole, blending ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese into a satisfying midwestern classic. Home cooks will savor this one-pan wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Seasoning:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the kitchen oven to a steady 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect warming environment for the hearty casserole.
  2. In a spacious skillet, thoroughly brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, carefully draining away any excess fat to ensure a lean foundation.
  3. Enhance the beef’s flavor profile by gently sautéing finely chopped onions and minced garlic in a touch of olive oil until they become translucent and aromatic.
  4. Combine the seasoned beef with the sautéed aromatics, incorporating a balanced blend of salt and freshly ground black pepper for depth of taste.
  5. Whisk the condensed cream of mushroom soup with milk in a separate mixing bowl until the mixture achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
  6. Prepare a greased 9×13-inch baking dish by creating alternating layers: first a base of sliced potatoes, followed by a generous spread of beef mixture, then pour half the soup mixture. Repeat the layering process to build complexity.
  7. Generously crown the casserole with a blanket of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring complete coverage for a golden, melted topping.
  8. Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour at 350°F. Uncover and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges become crisp.
  9. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes, letting the layers settle and flavors meld before serving this comforting, family-style dish.

Notes

  • Select lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier casserole.
  • Slice potatoes uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to boost nutritional value and create more complex flavor profiles.
  • Consider using low-fat cheese or dairy-free alternatives for lactose-intolerant or health-conscious individuals.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 285
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 340 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 19 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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