This post may contain affiliate links learn more
Nothing brings warmth and satisfaction to a table quite like a casserole bubbling with creamy layers of potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheddar. This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty yet easy. Every spoonful is filled with tender potatoes and savory beef, making it an instant family favorite.
Why Youโll Love This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a weeknight dream come true! Hereโs why itโs sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation:
- Hearty and filling: Loaded with potatoes and ground beef, itโs a perfect balance of protein and carbs.
- Comfort in every bite: Creamy layers, gooey cheese, and a hint of garlic create an irresistible taste.
- Family-friendly: Even the picky eaters will love it!
- Simple ingredients: Uses items you likely already have, so itโs perfect for last-minute dinners.
- Customizable: There are endless ways to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste (more on that below).
Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Kitchen Tools Youโll Need
- Large skillet for browning the ground beef and onion
- Mixing bowl to combine the soup and milk
- 9ร13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking
- Foil to cover during baking
Customizing Your Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to switch it up:
- Use a different soup: Try cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup for a unique twist.
- Add veggies: Toss in some sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or frozen peas for added nutrition.
- Switch up the cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
- Add a crispy topping: Crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even fried onions sprinkled on top before baking will add crunch!
How to Make Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth. This mixture will become the creamy layer in your casserole.
3. Assemble the Hamburger Potato Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Lightly grease a 9ร13-inch baking dish. Start layering your casserole by spreading half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, then top with half of the cooked ground beef. Drizzle half of the soup mixture over this layer, then repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.
4. Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep moisture in, and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Top with Cheese
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and golden.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Sprinkle with paprika for an extra pop of color and flavor, if desired. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting casserole!
What to Serve with Hamburger Potato Casserole
This dish is filling on its own, but if youโd like to add a side, here are a few ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds a light, refreshing contrast.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots bring color and extra nutrition to the meal.
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up that delicious creamy sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole Every Time
- Uniform potato slices: Try to slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/8-inch thick, to ensure even cooking.
- Use a mandoline: For quick, uniform slices, a mandoline slicer is incredibly handy (and a big time-saver).
- Cook the beef thoroughly: Since the casserole wonโt be in the oven for hours, make sure the beef is fully browned in the skillet.
- Let it cool: Giving the casserole a few minutes to set after baking will help keep its layers intact when you serve.
Storing Leftovers
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a fantastic make-ahead or leftover meal! Hereโs how to store it:
- In the fridge: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- In the freezer: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a 350ยฐF oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. For smaller portions, the microwave works fine too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works just as well. Just remember to season generously to maintain that hearty flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When youโre ready to bake, just add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own at home with a gluten-free thickener.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with an unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and use a dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether.
Conclusion
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is everything you want in a cozy, comforting mealโlayers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese all baked to perfection. Perfect for meal prep, family gatherings, or simply an easy dinner, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Related Recipes to Try Next
For more delicious and comforting dishes, check out some of my favorites:
- Zapekanka: A Ukrainian Cheesecake Recipe: A delightful, slightly sweet dish that doubles as dessert or breakfast!
- Creamy Garlic Bread Soup with Homemade Croutons: A comforting soup loaded with creamy garlic flavors.
- Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce: A zesty, buttery sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta or seafood.
Iโd love to hear how your casserole turns out! Please share your feedback or even a photo on Pinterest, and donโt forget to rate the recipe below. Happy cooking! ๐ฒโจ
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Enjoy this delicious, hearty casserole thatโs bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
PrintEasy Hamburger Potato Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with creamy layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, itโs a satisfying and hearty dish thatโs simple to prepare and packed with flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease a 9ร13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the potatoes on the bottom of the dish, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then add half of the cooked beef and half of the soup mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, sprinkle with paprika if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it your own: Swap in ground turkey for a leaner option or use a different cheese blend for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Try adding bell peppers or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Casserole, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg