Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Cozy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Hearty Family Favorite

Comfort food takes center stage with this hearty hamburger potato casserole that promises pure deliciousness.

Layers of tender potatoes and seasoned ground beef create a mouthwatering combination that speaks to home-cooked goodness.

Cheese melts perfectly between each savory layer, binding the ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet flavorful recipes like this crowd-pleaser.

Every bite delivers a perfect balance of meaty, cheesy, and potato-packed goodness.

The aroma alone will draw everyone to the table, eager to dig into this classic comfort dish.

Key Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base that provides the main protein for the casserole.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Garlic Powder: These aromatic ingredients add depth and savory notes to the dish.
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb used for garnishing and adding a pop of color.
Dairy and Binding Ingredients:
  • Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup, Milk: These ingredients create a creamy, rich sauce that binds the casserole together.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A melty, sharp cheese that adds a delicious topping and extra flavor.
Starch:
  • Potatoes: Sliced potatoes form the hearty base of the casserole, providing a comforting and filling foundation.
Seasonings:
  • Paprika, Salt, Pepper: These classic seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Cooking Accessories:
  • Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions and brown the ground beef.

Hamburger Potato Casserole Cooking Directions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350°F, getting it ready for some serious comfort food action.

Step 2: Sizzle the Onions

Grab a large skillet and drizzle in some olive oil.

Toss in the chopped onions and cook them until they turn soft and see-through.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Tumble in the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned.

Sprinkle in:
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Stir everything together so the beef gets coated with those awesome spices.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • Milk

Blend until the mixture is smooth and dreamy.

Step 5: Build the Delicious Layers

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start layering:
  • First layer: Half of the sliced potatoes
  • Second layer: Half of the seasoned beef
  • Third layer: Half of the creamy soup mixture

Repeat these layers one more time.

Step 6: First Baking Session

Cover the dish with foil and slide it into the oven.

Bake for a full hour, letting all those flavors mingle and get cozy.

Step 7: Cheese It Up

Pull out the dish, remove the foil, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top.

Pop it back in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Shower the casserole with chopped fresh parsley.

Serve hot and watch everyone dig in with excitement!

Tips for Rich, Flavorful Hamburger Potato Layers

  • Choose lean ground beef with 80/20 or 85/15 fat content for the best flavor and texture without excessive grease.
  • Use a mandoline or sharp knife to create uniform potato slices, ensuring consistent cooking and a professional-looking casserole.
  • Press each potato layer gently to create a compact base, allowing the soup mixture to seep through and enhance overall moisture.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the cheese set and makes cutting easier.
  • Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version that maintains the dish's hearty character.

Hamburger Potato Casserole Variations and Ideas

  • Vegetarian Potato Casserole: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, keeping all other ingredients the same for a meatless version.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the creamy, cheesy texture.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Add diced bell peppers, use feta cheese instead of cheddar, and sprinkle with oregano for a Greek-style flavor profile.

Serving Hamburger Potato Casserole for Family Dinners

  • Family Comfort Plate: Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, creamy flavors and add some fresh texture.
  • Rustic Dinner Companion: Pair with tangy pickles or coleslaw to cut through the richness and provide a zesty contrast to the warm, comforting dish.
  • Weekend Feast Enhancer: Add warm crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side to soak up the delicious sauce and complete the satisfying meal experience.
  • Veggie Boost Option: Sprinkle some steamed broccoli or roasted green beans around the casserole to increase nutritional value and add vibrant color to the plate.

Storage Tips for Hamburger Potato Casserole Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date and contents.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil to prevent drying and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes. Just ensure they’re sliced evenly for consistent cooking.

  • Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.

  • Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?

Definitely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat work well in this recipe. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before layering.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, low-fat cream of mushroom soup, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers between layers.

Hamburger Potato Casserole That Brings Comfort Home

  • Create Comfort Quickly: A hearty one-dish meal that delivers rich, satisfying flavors with minimal kitchen effort and maximum taste.
  • Family Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with familiar ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese that appeal to both kids and adults, making mealtime stress-free.
  • Minimal Prep, Maximum Enjoyment: Straightforward layering technique requires basic cooking skills, perfect for home cooks of all experience levels who want a delicious dinner without complicated techniques.
  • Budget-Friendly Feast: Uses affordable, accessible ingredients that transform simple components into a filling meal that stretches your grocery budget while delivering exceptional taste.
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Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty comfort meets Midwestern charm in this hamburger potato casserole, blending ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese into a soul-warming dish. Home cooks will savor each comforting bite of this classic family-style meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Dairy and Seasoning:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.75 cup milk
  • 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F, ensuring an even cooking environment for the casserole.
  2. Sauté chopped onions in olive oil over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Introduce ground beef to the skillet, browning thoroughly while incorporating garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for robust flavor.
  4. Whisk condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk together until creating a smooth, creamy mixture.
  5. Prepare a greased 9×13-inch baking dish by creating alternating layers: first, arrange half the potato slices, then distribute half the seasoned beef mixture, followed by pouring half the soup mixture.
  6. Repeat the layering process with remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture to ensure consistent flavor distribution.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour, allowing potatoes to become tender and ingredients to meld together.
  8. Uncover the casserole, generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, and return to the oven for 15-20 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a golden bubbling surface.
  9. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, adding a bright, herbaceous touch to the hearty casserole.

Notes

  • Customize the meat by using ground turkey or lean beef for a healthier option that reduces fat content.
  • Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade bechamel sauce for dietary variations.
  • Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach between potato layers to boost nutritional value and create more complex flavors.
  • Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a lower-carb, nutrient-dense alternative that adds natural sweetness to the casserole.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 426 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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