Hamburger Potato Casserole

Hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, this Hamburger Potato Casserole brings together layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and creamy mushroom sauce all crowned with golden melted cheddar. It’s a comfort food classic that’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or any time you need a warm, filling meal fresh from the oven.

Why You’ll Love Hamburger Potato Casserole

Comfort Food Classic: Rich, creamy, and cheesy with every bite.

• One-Dish Wonder: All-in-one meal means less cleanup.
• Customizable: Swap proteins or cheeses to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Great for feeding a crowd or picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Option: Can be assembled in advance and baked later.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Vegetables

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Peel and thinly slice the 4 russet potatoes. A mandoline is helpful for uniform slices.
• Chop the onion and set both aside.

Brown the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
• Drain excess grease, then season the mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Prepare the Sauce

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and ¾ cup milk until smooth.

Layer the Casserole

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the remaining olive oil.
• Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in a flat layer on the bottom.
• Top with half of the ground beef mixture.
• Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef and potatoes.
• Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
• Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese.

Bake

• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Slice potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Don’t skip draining the beef—excess grease will make the casserole soggy.
• Try other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a twist.
• Add vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers for a balanced meal.
• Use sweet potatoes or a mix of white and sweet for added depth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed green beans.
• Pair with buttered rolls or garlic toast for a hearty meal.
• Top with a spoonful of sour cream or dollop of mustard for a tangy contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven or microwave until heated through.
• Freeze: Freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well—just slice them thinly.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Use a plant-based meat substitute and a mushroom or veggie broth-based cream sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely—try adding spinach, mushrooms, corn, or diced carrots.

Can I use a different cream soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery are great alternatives.

How will I know when it’s done?
The casserole is finished when the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is bubbling and golden.

Conclusion

With its cozy layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly tender potatoes, this Hamburger Potato Casserole is a family-friendly comfort food staple. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether served for dinner or brought to a potluck, it’s a guaranteed favorite every time.

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