If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to please the entire family, this Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect dish. Layered with savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and tender potatoes, it’s a timeless casserole that’s easy to put together and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hamburger Potato Casserole combines simple ingredients into a satisfying, warm dish that everyone will love. The savory flavors of seasoned beef and onions pair beautifully with creamy layers of potatoes and melted cheddar cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. Best of all, it’s an easy, one-pan meal that you can throw together with minimal prep.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hearty flavors.
Comfort Food Classic: It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients like ground beef and potatoes.

Ingredients for Hamburger Potato Casserole

To make this comforting casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s a list of kitchen tools you’ll need to make this recipe:

9×13 inch baking dish
Skillet for browning the beef
Mixing bowls
Aluminum foil
Knife for chopping onions and slicing potatoes
Peeler for the potatoes
Spatula or spoon for stirring

Step-by-Step Preparation of Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes into even, round slices. Chop the onion into small pieces, which will add flavor to the beef mixture.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions become soft and translucent. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole. Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for a delicious flavor boost.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the milk. Stir until smooth.

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the remaining olive oil, then arrange a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Add half of the browned beef and onion mixture over the potatoes, and then pour half of the mushroom soup mixture on top. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese, ensuring that the top is covered with a generous layer of cheese for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap in the moisture and ensure the potatoes cook through. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the top to become golden brown and bubbly, while ensuring the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to settle and cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps the casserole stay creamy and soft.
Evenly Slice the Potatoes: For even cooking, make sure to slice your potatoes thinly and evenly. A mandoline can help with this.
Drain the Beef Well: Be sure to drain excess grease from the ground beef after browning to avoid a greasy casserole.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives to prevent clumping, which can affect the texture when melted. For the best results, shred your own cheese.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to serving, Hamburger Potato Casserole can stand on its own as a hearty main dish. However, it pairs well with lighter sides such as a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.

For presentation, serve the casserole in the baking dish for a rustic, homey feel. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. You could also place it in individual casserole dishes for a more elegant, plated presentation.

Recipe Variations and Additions

Vegetable Boost: Add some extra nutrition by layering in vegetables like thinly sliced carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Cheese Swaps: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp gouda.
Meat Substitutes: If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef in this recipe.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat in the oven.

Pairing Suggestions for Hamburger Potato Casserole

For a balanced meal, consider serving this casserole with a light side such as:

A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Steamed broccoli or green beans
A warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals. It’s the perfect dish to bring to family gatherings or enjoy as a cozy weeknight dinner. If you tried this recipe, let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious comfort food recipes.