Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Best

Hamburger Potato Casserole hits the spot. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese create a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this casserole is as comforting as it is delicious!

Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 large potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon gold or russet work well)
1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces)
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional for extra flavor)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your choice)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess grease, then set the beef mixture aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Arrange Potato Slices: Place a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Add Ground Beef: Spoon half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
Add Sauce: Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over the beef layer.
Repeat Layers: Repeat these layers (potatoes, beef, sauce) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the creamy soup mixture on top.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle Cheese: Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve Warm: Cut into squares and enjoy a warm, hearty serving of this comforting casserole.

Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Potato Casserole

Use Thin Potato Slices: Thinly slicing the potatoes helps them cook evenly and become tender. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices.
Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, layer in thinly sliced carrots, mushrooms, or even spinach.
Try Different Cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a unique flavor.

Variations on Hamburger Potato Casserole

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a cheeseburger-inspired twist.
Taco-Style Casserole: Season the ground beef with taco seasoning and add a layer of black beans or corn for a Mexican-style casserole.
Creamier Casserole: Swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup for a different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Hamburger Potato Casserole with sides like:

Green Beans or Steamed Broccoli
Garden Salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Garlic Bread or Buttered Dinner Rolls

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and store in the refrigerator. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives and will still taste delicious.

How Do I Know When the Potatoes are Done?

The potatoes should be fork-tender when the casserole is fully cooked. If they’re not quite tender after the recommended baking time, cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing ahead for busy nights, this casserole will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting layers of this classic dish!