Best Hamburger Potato Casserole – 6 Ingredients for a Cheesy, Comforting Meal!

There’s something magical about a dish that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings at home. This Hamburger Potato Casserole is one of those timeless recipes—hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to make! Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together to create a meal that’s pure comfort in every bite.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing dish, you’ve just found your new favorite recipe. And guess what? It’s incredibly versatile, so you can tweak it to fit your taste preferences! Keep reading to learn how to make this easy casserole and discover all the ways you can customize it.

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Casserole

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you probably already have.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
• Creamy & Cheesy: Every forkful is rich, comforting, and full of flavor.
• Great for Leftovers: Even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this warm, homey dish.

What Does Hamburger Potato Casserole Taste Like?

Imagine the rich, savory flavor of seasoned ground beef mingling with soft, tender potatoes, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that melts beautifully into every layer. It’s a cross between a classic meat-and-potatoes dinner and a creamy potato gratin, making it the ultimate comfort food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
• 4-5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Optional Additions & Substitutions

• Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas for extra nutrition.
• Meat: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different twist.
• Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a new flavor profile.
• Soup Alternative: Use a homemade béchamel sauce instead of canned soup for a fresher taste.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet (for cooking the ground beef)
• Sharp knife or mandoline (to slice the potatoes evenly)
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil

How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
• Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft.
• Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
• Stir in ½ cup shredded cheese for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
• Spread half of the cooked beef mixture on top.
• Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef.
• Repeat the layers one more time, ending with the sauce.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.
• Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.

What to Serve with Hamburger Potato Casserole

This hearty dish pairs well with simple sides. Try:

• A Crisp Green Salad – Balances out the richness with freshness.
• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or carrots work great.
• Garlic Bread – Because who doesn’t love extra carbs?

For a delicious homemade bread option, try this Cheese Bread—it’s cheesy, soft, and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce from your casserole!

Tips for the Best Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Slice the Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline for uniform thickness, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Season Each Layer: Don’t skimp on seasoning—it makes all the difference!
• Cover While Baking: This keeps the potatoes tender and prevents them from drying out.
• Let It Rest: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes after baking makes it easier to slice.

How to Store & Reheat Hamburger Potato Casserole

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I Have to Cook the Potatoes First?

Nope! As long as they’re sliced thinly, they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.

Can I Use Fresh Mushrooms Instead of Canned Soup?

Absolutely! Sauté about 1 cup of chopped mushrooms in butter and mix them into a homemade white sauce for a fresher take.

How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?

• Swap ground turkey for beef.
• Use low-fat cheese and milk.
• Replace cream soup with a homemade light sauce.

You Need to Try This Hamburger Potato Casserole!

There’s a reason this cheesy, beefy, potato-packed casserole has been a family favorite for generations. It’s easy, comforting, and so satisfying! Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s sure to be a hit.

If you give this recipe a try, leave a comment below and share your photos on Pinterest (poulefrecipe)! I love seeing your creations!

Looking for more easy side dishes to pair with this meal? Check out these recipes:

• Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread – A cheesy, savory bread that complements this casserole beautifully.
• Crispy Roasted Cauliflower – A crunchy, flavorful veggie side that balances out the richness.

Now, go grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking! 🍽️😋

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