Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Looking for a simple, hearty meal that’s both budget-friendly and delicious? This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect dish! It combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It's a crowd-pleaser that makes for an excellent family dinner, especially on busy weeknights. Best of all, it’s super easy to make with just a few basic ingredients. Let’s get started on this comforting casserole that’s sure to become a household favorite!

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What is a “Hamburger Potato Casserole”?

A Hamburger Potato Casserole is a layered, baked dish that typically includes ground beef (the "hamburger"), thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce made with cheese and sometimes condensed soup. This all-in-one meal combines the flavors of a hamburger with the hearty comfort of potatoes, creating a filling and satisfying casserole. It’s similar to a Shepherd’s Pie but with a cheesy, potato gratin-like twist. It’s perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, or when you’re craving something cozy and delicious.

Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole:

1. 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
2. 1 small onion (diced)
3. 4-5 medium russet potatoes (thinly sliced)
4. 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
5. ½ cup milk (or beef broth for extra flavor)
6. 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
7. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
8. ½ teaspoon onion powder
9. Salt and pepper to taste
10. ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
11. 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
12. Fresh parsley or chives (optional garnish)

Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole (Healthier Option)

For a lighter version of this casserole, consider these substitutions:

1. 1 lb ground turkey (or lean ground beef)
2. 4-5 medium Yukon gold potatoes (or sweet potatoes)
3. Low-sodium cream of mushroom soup (or make your own)
4. Low-fat or almond milk (instead of regular milk)
5. 1 ½ cups reduced-fat shredded cheese
6. Olive oil or avocado oil spray (to reduce added fat)

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is highly adaptable, allowing you to make swaps based on your taste preferences or dietary needs:

• Protein Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Potato Alternatives: While russet potatoes are traditional, you can also use sweet potatoes, Yukon golds, or even thinly sliced carrots or zucchini for a twist.
• Cheese: While cheddar is a classic, you can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Cream of Soup: Instead of cream of mushroom, try cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade béchamel sauce for a creamier texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Slice the Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. You can use a mandoline for even slices, but a sharp knife works just fine too.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or beef broth), and ½ cup of shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Potatoes: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.
2. Add the Ground Beef: Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the potato layer.
3. Pour the Sauce: Pour half of the soup and cheese mixture over the beef and potatoes.
4. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of potatoes, then pour the remaining sauce over the top.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover with Foil: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Remove Foil: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Let it Cool: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.

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

1. Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef with onions until fully browned and seasoned.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Slice the potatoes thinly so they cook evenly in the oven.
3. Mix the Creamy Sauce: Combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cheese to create the rich sauce.
4. Layer the Ingredients: Layer sliced potatoes, cooked beef, and the creamy sauce in a baking dish.
5. Bake Until Golden: Bake until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Beef: Don’t overcook the beef in the skillet—it just needs to be browned. Overcooking can make it tough by the time the casserole is done baking.
2. Undercooking the Potatoes: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly enough (about ¼ inch). Thick slices may take too long to cook through.
3. Not Seasoning the Layers: Be sure to season the beef and potatoes well. The salt and spices help bring out the flavors of the casserole.
4. Skipping the Cheese: Cheese not only adds flavor but also gives the casserole a creamy, golden finish. Don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Even though this is a rustic, hearty dish, you can still elevate its presentation:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.
2. Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
3. Individual Servings: Cut the casserole into individual portions and serve on plates for a neater presentation.

How to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table, letting everyone help themselves.
• Portion Control: Cut the casserole into individual servings and plate with a side of steamed veggies or salad.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Potato Casserole

1. Rustic Baking Dish: Bake and serve the casserole in a rustic ceramic or cast-iron dish for a cozy, homestyle look.
2. Herb Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley, green onions, or chives just before serving to add a vibrant pop of color.
3. Cheesy Crust: For a golden, cheesy finish, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it but don’t bake, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option. You can also use ground chicken or pork.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs, if using any.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?
A: Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef after cooking, and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup mixture isn’t too watery by using the

correct ratio of milk or broth.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Definitely! You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes, simply use dairy-free alternatives for the milk and cheese, and be sure to use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food—simple to make, rich in flavor, and sure to satisfy your hunger. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Customize it to your liking by adding extra veggies, using different cheeses, or swapping in your favorite protein. No matter how you serve it, this casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

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