.png){kind=small}
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a recipe that never disappoints. It combines tender sliced potatoes, juicy seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce baked together into one warm, satisfying dish. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want something hearty and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Casserole Is a Family Favorite
This recipe is loved because it uses simple ingredients that most people already have at home. Ground beef adds protein and flavor, potatoes make the dish comforting and filling, and melted cheese ties everything together with a creamy, irresistible texture. It’s the kind of meal that both kids and adults enjoy, and it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your fridge.
Ingredients
- • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- • 5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about 900 g total)
- • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- • 2 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1 teaspoon salt
- • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- • 1 teaspoon paprika
- • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- • 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
- • 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- • 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set it aside while you prepare the ingredients.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme or Italian seasoning. Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and set the beef mixture aside.
In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth. This mixture will create the creamy base for the casserole.
Now it’s time to assemble the casserole. Place a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Spread a portion of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Spoon some of the soup mixture on top and sprinkle with a bit of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers: potatoes, beef, sauce, and cheese, until all ingredients are used. Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. For a lighter meal, serve smaller portions alongside roasted broccoli or green beans.
Helpful Tips
Slice the potatoes thinly so they cook evenly and become tender in the oven. If your slices are thick, the casserole may need extra baking time. You can also parboil the potatoes for a few minutes before assembling to speed things up.
Feel free to change the cheese. Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work beautifully in this recipe. You can also add vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s warm, filling, and full of flavor, yet simple enough for any home cook. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this casserole is always a winning choice. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
Q & A
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Yes. Let it cool completely, wrap it well, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative and works very well in this recipe.