Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty, and cheesy meal, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe is your answer! It's a family-friendly dish that brings together tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheese in a casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. This casserole is easy to make, customizable, and bound to be a hit at your dinner table. Read on to learn how to make this delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal.

this Recipe

What is a “Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole”?

A Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a layered dish that combines flavorful ground beef (hamburger), tender potatoes, and a rich cheese sauce that’s baked to perfection. This casserole is filling, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day. The layers of potatoes and beef are cooked together, allowing the flavors to meld, while the melted cheese on top creates a creamy, gooey finish. Think of it like a twist on a cheeseburger with potatoes replacing the bun, all baked together in one delicious dish!

Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

To get started, you'll need a list of simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry and refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole:

Main Ingredients:

• Ground beef: 1 to 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef (80-85% lean works best).
• Potatoes: 4 to 5 medium-sized russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced.
• Onion: 1 medium onion, diced.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional but adds extra flavor).
• Shredded cheese: 2 to 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese or a cheese blend.
• Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) or cream of chicken soup if you prefer a different flavor.
• Milk: ½ cup to help thin out the soup and make the casserole creamy.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing and adding flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the meat and potatoes.

Optional Ingredients:

• Paprika: 1 teaspoon for a bit of smokiness.
• Chopped green onions: For garnish and extra flavor.
• Sour cream: ½ cup, mixed into the soup mixture for added creaminess.
• Bacon bits: Sprinkle on top for a smoky crunch.
• Mixed veggies: Frozen or fresh peas, carrots, or green beans to add more nutrition.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe is that it’s highly versatile. You can make a few substitutions based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences:

• Meat substitutes: If you want a healthier version, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground beef substitute like Beyond Meat.
• Cheese options: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
• Potatoes: While russet potatoes work well, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used. If you’re in a pinch, frozen hashbrowns or tater tots can also replace sliced potatoes.
• Cream soup alternatives: If you’re not a fan of canned soups, make a simple homemade sauce with butter, flour, and milk to create a roux and mix in your choice of seasonings.
• Add-ins: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture. You can also add a layer of cooked pasta for a heartier meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious casserole. This step-by-step guide will ensure that your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole turns out perfect every time.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes (if desired), then slice them thinly—about ⅛ inch thick—using a sharp knife or mandoline. Set them aside.
3. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat and season the beef with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
4. Mix the soup and milk: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the milk (and sour cream if you’re using it). Stir until smooth. This mixture will help create a creamy base for the casserole.
5. Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Begin by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese.
6. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Let it rest: Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes to set before serving.

How to Cook Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Prep the ingredients – Dice onions, mince garlic, slice potatoes, and shred the cheese.
2. Step 2: Cook the beef – Sauté onions and garlic, then brown the beef and season it.
3. Step 3: Mix the soup base – Combine soup, milk, and any optional add-ins like sour cream.
4. Step 4: Layer the ingredients – In a greased baking dish, layer the potatoes, beef, soup, and cheese.
5. Step 5: Bake – Cover and bake at 350°F, removing foil to let cheese brown.
6. Step 6: Serve – Let it rest, garnish with green onions, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not slicing the potatoes thinly enough: Thick potato slices can result in uneven cooking. Use a mandoline if possible to ensure even, thin slices.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer of the casserole for maximum flavor.
• Using too much liquid: Be mindful of the amount of milk or liquid added, as too much can make the casserole soupy rather than creamy.
• Forgetting to cover the casserole: Baking with foil allows the potatoes to cook evenly without drying out. Remove the foil toward the end to allow the cheese to brown.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving this casserole, it’s all about making it look as good as it tastes. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

• Portioning: Slice the casserole into even squares using a spatula for a clean presentation.
• Garnishing: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or crispy bacon bits on top for added color and flavor.
• Side dishes: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This casserole is filling enough to be served on its own, but if you’re looking for a complete meal, try pairing it with:

• Steamed or roasted veggies: Green beans, broccoli, or carrots.
• A fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Crusty bread: A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls complements the creamy texture of the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Individual servings: Spoon out portions into ramekins for an elegant presentation, especially if you’re serving guests.
• Family-style: Serve straight from the baking dish with a serving spoon for a more casual, homey feel.
• Toppings bar: Set up a toppings bar with extras like sour cream, jalapeños, or crispy onions, so each person can customize their serving.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can prepare this casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake.
• Freeze leftovers: This casserole freezes well. Simply portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Double the recipe: If you're feeding a large group, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative for a sweeter, more nutrient-packed version of the dish.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free cream soup or make your own gluten-free roux with butter and gluten

-free flour.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Yes, feel free to mix in veggies like peas, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrition and texture.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready. Just be sure to cover it well and refrigerate it.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect combination of hearty, savory, and cheesy goodness that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you're preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or for guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and endless variations, this is a recipe you'll want to keep in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic comfort dish!

Print