Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Featured in Delicious Main Course Recipes for Every Occasion.

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole combines everyday ingredients into a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe features layers of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. What makes this casserole special is its simplicity and comforting appeal - it transforms basic ingredients into a hearty, filling dish that satisfies even picky eaters. The layering technique ensures that every bite contains a perfect balance of flavors, while the covered baking method allows the potatoes to become tender in the flavorful sauce. Though it requires some patience while baking, the hands-on preparation is straightforward, making this an ideal recipe for those nights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Home Delicious Recipes
Updated on Tue, 25 Feb 2025 16:17:46 GMT
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Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, comforting meal that brings the whole family to the table. This satisfying dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender potato slices, and gooey melted cheese in a creamy sauce, creating layers of flavor that meld together during baking. The result is a nostalgic American classic that delivers both convenience and comfort in every bite.

Last month when I made this for a family gathering, my nephew who "doesn't like casseroles" asked for seconds. The empty baking dish told the whole story of its universal appeal.

Essential Elements

  • Ground beef: Choose lean for best flavor without excess fat
  • Fresh potatoes: Sliced thinly for proper cooking
  • Condensed soup: Creates creamy binding sauce
  • Sharp cheddar: Provides perfect golden, bubbly topping
  • Onion and garlic: Build essential flavor foundation
  • Proper seasoning: Enhances all other ingredients
  • Layering technique: Ensures even distribution of flavors
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Creating Perfect Casserole

Meat Preparation:
Brown beef thoroughly, developing rich flavor. Drain excess fat for cleaner taste.
Vegetable Technique:
Slice potatoes uniformly thin for even cooking. Sauté aromatics until fragrant.
Layering Strategy:
Arrange components strategically for proper texture. Create even distribution for consistent flavor in every bite.
Baking Method:
Cover initially to trap moisture. Uncover to achieve golden, crispy topping.

My grandmother always said a good casserole should be "comforting enough to feed the soul and simple enough to make on a busy day." This recipe honors her wisdom perfectly.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition. Warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Creative Variations

Experiment with adding different vegetables like corn or peas between layers. Try using sweet potatoes for natural sweetness, or incorporate Italian seasoning and mozzarella for an Italian twist.

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Storage Success

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often improve overnight as they meld together. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole, covered, in a 325°F oven.

After perfecting this recipe through countless family dinners, I've found that success lies in the details - the proper browning of the beef, the thickness of the potato slices, and the patience to let it bake until everything melds together perfectly. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for comfort food on a cold evening, this Hamburger Potato Casserole delivers satisfaction in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since you're starting with cold ingredients.
→ Do I need to pre-cook the potato slices?
No, the potatoes cook during the baking process. Just be sure to slice them thinly (about 1/8-inch thick) so they become tender. A mandoline slicer works well for this if you have one.
→ Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, cream of celery or cream of chicken soup work well as substitutes. You can also make a homemade white sauce with 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1 1/2 cups milk, cooked until thickened.
→ How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are fork-tender, the sauce is bubbling around the edges, and the cheese is melted and golden. If needed, insert a knife into the center to check the potato doneness.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or warm dinner rolls. Since it contains both protein and starch, a vegetable side is all you need for a complete meal.

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

A hearty, budget-friendly casserole featuring layers of ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and cheese in a creamy sauce.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
75 Minutes
Total Time
95 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (preferably lean)
02 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
03 1 medium onion, chopped
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

→ Sauce Ingredients

06 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
07 1/2 cup milk
08 Salt and pepper to taste
09 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).

Step 02

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 03

(Optional) In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant.

Step 04

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with the sautéed onions and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. In another bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth.

Step 05

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes then spread half of the beef mixture on top. Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.

Step 06

Top the casserole with the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 07

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 08

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  1. Using lean ground beef reduces excess fat
  2. Slice potatoes to even thickness for consistent cooking
  3. Allowing the casserole to rest helps it set properly for serving
  4. Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Aluminum foil

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy
  • May contain wheat (in condensed soup)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 480
  • Total Fat: 26 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 32 g
  • Protein: 28 g