Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
About This Recipe
This casserole combines two favorites — cheesy potatoes and a hamburger-style filling — into one wholesome, oven-baked meal. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are straightforward, and the result is pure comfort. Every layer is packed with flavor: the potatoes are soft and buttery, the beef is seasoned perfectly, and the cheese forms a golden, bubbling crust on top that ties it all together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base:
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the dish)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, melt a small amount of butter and add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then stir in Worcestershire sauce for an extra boost of savory flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and paprika. This sauce will coat the potatoes and beef, keeping everything moist and flavorful while it bakes. The sour cream adds a nice tang, while the mushroom soup gives the dish that creamy, rich texture everyone loves.
3. Assemble the Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture on top, followed by half of the creamy sauce. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top.
Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and a final layer of cheese. Make sure the top is fully covered in cheese so it bakes into a golden, bubbly crust.
4. Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 60 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully. After an hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and slightly crisp around the edges.
5. Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole delivers the kind of homemade comfort that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s hearty, cheesy, and completely satisfying — a perfect balance of creamy potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese in every bite.
It’s also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite cheese blend, add diced bell peppers for color, or toss in a few slices of crispy bacon for a smoky twist. No matter how you make it, this dish never fails to impress.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a light side dish like a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance its richness. It also goes wonderfully with a slice of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for soaking up the creamy sauce.
For an extra indulgence, drizzle a little ranch dressing or sprinkle some crushed potato chips on top just before serving for added crunch.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
You can also freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 490 | Fat: 29g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 26g | Sodium: 580mg | Sugar: 3g
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is one of those old-fashioned recipes that never loses its charm. It’s simple, filling, and endlessly comforting — perfect for feeding a hungry family or enjoying as leftovers the next day. With its creamy layers and golden cheese topping, it’s bound to become a favorite on your dinner table.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or bringing something hearty to a gathering, this casserole delivers that down-home flavor everyone loves — warm, cheesy, and made with care.