Why You’ll Love This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
When you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and delicious, the Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the dish you’ll want to turn to. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing something for a laid-back weekend dinner, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
There’s something magical about the combination of creamy potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s one of those dishes that feels like home and brings people together. Not only is it a true crowd-pleaser, but it’s also incredibly easy to make—so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones.
This casserole is a one-pan wonder. Its layers of flavorful ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese all come together in a single dish, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re serving it to a hungry family or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole will quickly become a go-to recipe.
But the best part? It’s endlessly adaptable. You can make it just as it is or change things up with different ingredients to suit your taste. This makes it a versatile dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation.
What You’ll Need
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. To make this meal, all you need are a few basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef – Ground beef is the star of the show in this casserole. It’s quick to cook and gives the dish its meaty, savory base. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a fattier mix if you prefer a richer flavor. If you’re not a fan of beef, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat are great alternatives.
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced – Potatoes are the perfect canvas for soaking up all the delicious flavors in this casserole. For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. These types of potatoes hold up well when baked and become wonderfully tender.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Onions add a touch of sweetness and a savory base that perfectly complements the beef. The onion softens and caramelizes as it cooks, making every bite even more flavorful.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this casserole. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy flavor. You can experiment with other cheese varieties like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz) – The cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and depth of flavor. It acts as the perfect binder to hold the casserole together while infusing the dish with savory goodness. If you don’t love mushrooms, you can easily swap this out for cream of chicken soup, or use a homemade creamy sauce instead.
- 1/2 cup milk – The milk helps to thin out the cream of mushroom soup, making it easier to spread over the casserole and ensuring a smooth, creamy texture. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can use heavy cream or half-and-half instead.
- Salt and black pepper – These are the essential seasonings to elevate the dish. Don’t be afraid to season generously, as the potatoes and beef will absorb the flavors. Adjust according to your preference.
- Optional: garlic powder or other seasonings – Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and even a little cayenne pepper can all be added to give the casserole a unique twist. Season to your taste, whether you want something simple or something with a bit more of a kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
The steps to make this easy hamburger potato casserole are simple, making it a perfect option for busy days when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your ingredients before you start cooking. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. Thin slices will cook evenly and absorb the flavors better. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to ensure uniformity.
Chop the onion into small pieces—this will help it cook evenly and integrate well with the ground beef. Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside. Once your ingredients are ready, it’s time to cook the beef.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess fat. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you’d like, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even a bit of smoked paprika for added depth. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Now that your beef mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of butter.
Start by layering the bottom of the baking dish with half of the thinly sliced potatoes. Lay them out in an even layer to create the base. Next, add half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture on top of the potatoes. Spread it evenly so that each bite has a little bit of beef.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer. Don’t hold back on the cheese—it’s what makes this casserole so deliciously creamy.
Repeat this process with another layer of potatoes, the remaining beef mixture, and the remaining shredded cheese. This will create a beautiful layered effect when the casserole is baked.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the can of cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup of milk. Stir until the soup and milk are well incorporated. This mixture will act as a creamy sauce that binds the layers together while adding richness and flavor.
Pour the soup mixture over the casserole, ensuring that it covers all the layers. Use a spoon to spread the mixture evenly. Gently press down on the casserole to compress the layers slightly and make sure everything is coated.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. The foil helps to trap moisture, allowing the potatoes to cook through without drying out.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, creating a beautiful, golden crust on top.
Step 6: Serve
Once the casserole is finished baking, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut into neat portions. Serve it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
- Slice the potatoes thinly: Thin slices ensure the potatoes cook evenly and absorb all the flavors. A mandoline slicer works wonders for uniform thickness.
- Cook the beef thoroughly: Make sure the ground beef is fully cooked and browned. This helps enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
- Add extra seasonings: If you love bold flavors, feel free to play around with spices. A pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of hot sauce, or some dried herbs can give this casserole an exciting twist.
- Use good cheese: Quality cheddar cheese makes a big difference in the final flavor. Go for a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor or try a blend of cheeses for extra creaminess.
Variations to Try
While the traditional version of this casserole is a family favorite, it’s easy to switch things up and add your own unique touch. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers between the layers. Frozen peas or corn can also make great additions.
- Spicy twist: If you like a bit of heat, add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
- Make it a casserole bake-off: Swap out the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a veggie-based meat substitute for a different flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating
Storing: Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Be sure to let the casserole cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator to maintain its texture.
Freezing: You can also freeze this casserole for later. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes.
Reheating: To reheat individual servings, microwave them for 1-2 minutes. If reheating the entire casserole, cover it with foil and bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of soup? Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with other options like cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup, depending on your preference. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but will still create that creamy, comforting texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance by assembling it the night before and storing it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for busy nights. If frozen, be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Sweet potatoes can be used in place of regular potatoes for a slightly different flavor and a bit more nutrition. Sweet potatoes cook a little faster, so keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes.
Can I make this casserole healthier? For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. You can also use a lighter version of cream of mushroom soup or make your own creamy sauce with low-fat ingredients.
The Final Word
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing something for a special gathering, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite. With its creamy potatoes, savory beef, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the ability to make it your own with different variations, makes it a go-to meal for every cook. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this delicious casserole with your family and friends. It’s the kind of meal that brings people to the table and leaves them wanting more!