Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the bubbling pot of my latest kitchen creation, the rich aroma of spiced ground beef wafted through my home, instantly wrapping me in a comforting embrace. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite go-to dish: Hamburger Potato Casserole. This dish is not only a time-saver for those busy weeknights, but its heartiness makes it a warm hug on chilly evenings. It’s family-friendly, customizable to accommodate everyone’s taste buds—including a gluten-free twist—and it transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner for two, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. Ready to dive in and explore the delicious layers of flavor? Why is this casserole a family favorite? Comforting Layers: This Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together creamy potatoes, savory beef, and gooey cheese in one delicious dish. Customizable Option: Easily switch up the protein or add your favorite veggies—perfect for accommodating picky eaters! Time-Saving: With minimal prep and an easy bake time, it’s a busy weeknight savior. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, it never fails to impress. And if you’re looking for more comforting casseroles, why not try our Cheesy Carrot Casserole for a delicious twist? Hamburger Potato Casserole Ingredients For the Casserole Ground Beef – Provides richness and flavor; lean ground beef can help reduce greasiness. Potatoes – Essential for a hearty texture; opt for 4 medium-sized Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy result. Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor; 2 cups of sharp shredded cheddar are recommended. Cream of Mushroom Soup – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; one 10.5-ounce can works beautifully. Milk – Contributes to creaminess; use 1/2 cup of full-fat milk for the richest flavor. For Variations Turkey or Chicken – Substitute ground beef with these for a leaner option. Cauliflower – Use this as a lower-carb alternative to potatoes, ensuring a satisfying texture. Vegetables – Add seasonal choices like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Embrace the heartfelt comfort of this Hamburger Potato Casserole and let its customizable nature cater to your family’s preferences! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hamburger Potato Casserole Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for the bubbling magic of the Hamburger Potato Casserole. This temperature ensures even cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Meanwhile, position your oven rack in the center for optimal heat circulation. Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef for about 7-10 minutes, crumbling it with a spatula until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to maintain a hearty but not greasy texture. This flavorful beef layer is key to the casserole’s deliciousness. Step 3: Layer the Ingredients In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, begin by adding half of the sliced potatoes, laying them out evenly. Sprinkle with salt and pepper for seasoning, then add half of the cooked ground beef, followed by half of the cream of mushroom soup, and a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This harmonious layering brings out comforting flavors. Step 4: Repeat the Layers Now, repeat the layering by adding the remaining sliced potatoes over the first layer. Follow with the rest of the ground beef and cream of mushroom soup. Finish the layers with the remaining shredded cheese, creating a beautiful cheesy top that will melt perfectly during baking. Step 5: Add the Creaminess Drizzle 1/2 cup of milk over the entire casserole. This step injects a creamy richness that will ensure your Hamburger Potato Casserole has a luscious texture. The milk seeps down into the layers, enhancing every bite with moisture and flavor. Step 6: Bake the Casserole Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After this initial baking, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Look for the cheese to be bubbly and golden, while the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork. Step 7: Cool and Serve Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving, giving time for the layers to set. Feel free to garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness, enhancing your delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole. What to Serve with Hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole? As the savory scents of this comforting casserole fill your home, it’s time to think about the perfect side dishes to elevate your meal. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and slightly sweet, steamed broccoli adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the casserole perfectly. It’s a classic pairing that boosts nutrition, too. Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread envelops the senses with its buttery aroma, making it an irresistible side that complements the hearty layers of meat and cheese. Dip it into the casserole’s creamy sauce for an indulgent experience! Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with romaine, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a light and refreshing contrast. Toss it with a tangy vinaigrette for the perfect flavor balance, cutting through the richness of the dish. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts lend earthy flavor and an appealing texture to the meal. You’ll love the slight bitterness they provide, along with their delightful crunch. Homemade Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw, with its crunch and tang, adds a delightful contrast to the warm casserole. The sweetness of the cabbage and carrots will bring harmony to every bite. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn on the cob brings a nostalgic feel to the table, reminiscent of family gatherings. Slathered in butter, it’s the ultimate comfort food side alongside the casserole. Sparkling Lemonade: For a refreshing drink, sparkling lemonade cuts through the meal’s richness beautifully. Its zesty flavor enhances each pleasant bite, making it a delightful addition to your dining experience. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with homemade chocolate chip cookies. Their warm, gooey centers provide the perfect comfort food treat after the fulfilling casserole. These sides not only enhance the hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole but also create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love! How to Store and Freeze Hamburger Potato Casserole Fridge: Store leftover Hamburger Potato Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and ready for a comforting meal any time. Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the casserole in individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and foil to maintain quality. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Ensure it’s hot all the way to the center for best results. Cooling: Always allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing, as this helps maintain its flavor and texture. Make Ahead Options These Hamburger Potato Casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the layers (sliced potatoes, cooked ground beef, and combined soup and cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the casserole in a greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge, drizzle with milk, and bake as instructed for about 45-65 minutes until bubbly and golden. To maintain quality, ensure the casserole is well-covered to prevent drying out, and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Hamburger Potato Casserole Choose Starchy Potatoes: Use Russets for creaminess; waxy potatoes won’t yield that delightful texture you crave in this Hamburger Potato Casserole. Season Generously: Enhance the beef’s flavor with garlic powder and onion powder. This step is crucial for a well-rounded taste! Layer Adequately: Ensure each layer is even to promote uniform cooking; this prevents some potatoes from being undercooked while others become mushy. Check for Tenderness: Use a fork to test the potatoes in the final baking stage; this way, you avoid overcooking the casserole and losing that perfect bite. Let It Rest: Allow your casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving; this helps the layers set, making for easier serving and better presentation. Hamburger Potato Casserole Variations Feel free to make this comforting dish uniquely yours by trying out these delightful twists! Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter, equally delicious meal. Cauliflower Magic: Swap half of the potatoes with cauliflower for a fantastic low-carb option that’s still creamy and satisfying. Vegetarian Delight: Use lentils or plant-based meat crumbles; toss in seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for extra color. Spice It Up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of Italian herbs to elevate the flavor profile of your casserole. Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for an extra melty, flavor-packed topping. Creamy Twist: Try replacing cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresh, tailored taste. Extra Crunch: Top with fried onions or panko breadcrumbs before the final bake for a delightful crispy layer. And if you’re craving more comforting casserole recipes, don’t miss out on our delicious Baked Tortellini Casserole or a warming bowl of Kielbasa Potato Soup for a cozy twist! Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I know if my potatoes are ripe and suitable for this casserole? Absolutely! Look for potatoes that are firm without any dark spots or blemishes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this casserole, as they provide a creamy texture. Avoid potatoes with green spots or eyes, as they can be bitter and unsafe to eat. What’s the best way to store leftover Hamburger Potato Casserole? Very simple! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it can last for up to 3 days. For the best taste, I recommend enjoying it within that timeframe! Can I freeze Hamburger Potato Casserole? Certainly! To freeze, first, let the casserole cool down completely. Then, cut it into individual portions and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, which helps prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label, so you know what you have! What if the casserole is too watery after baking? If you find your casserole is watery, it could be due to overcooking the potatoes or using too much cream soup. Next time, try reducing the amount of milk and make sure to layer the potatoes evenly. For serving, you can use a slotted spoon to remove excess liquid. Are there any dietary considerations for this casserole? Absolutely! You can make this Hamburger Potato Casserole gluten-free by opting for gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or making your own white sauce. If you are serving kids or have allergies in mind, opt for lean ground turkey or bacon for a different flavor while ensuring it’s suitable! What’s the best way to reheat Hamburger Potato Casserole? When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen casserole, first thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat it for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. This method will keep it moist and delicious! Deliciously Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole for Family Fun A comforting and customizable Hamburger Potato Casserole perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 420 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole1 pound Ground Beef Lean ground beef helps reduce greasiness.4 medium Potatoes Russet or Yukon Gold for creamy texture.2 cups Cheddar Cheese Sharp shredded cheddar recommended.1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Mushroom Soup Binds ingredients and adds moisture.1/2 cup Milk Use full-fat for the richest flavor.For VariationsTurkey or Chicken Substitute for a leaner option.Cauliflower Low-carb alternative to potatoes.Vegetables Add seasonal choices like zucchini or bell peppers. Equipment Large Skillet9x13 inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the oven rack in the center. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef for 7-10 minutes, crumbling it until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, add half of the sliced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, then layer with half of the ground beef, half of the cream of mushroom soup, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining sliced potatoes, ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Drizzle 1/2 cup of milk over the entire casserole. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and potatoes are tender. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
