This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food dinner made with layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce baked until bubbly and golden. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or make-ahead meals. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and a cozy homemade taste make this casserole a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients
- Rich, cheesy, and very filling
- Perfect one-dish family dinner
- Easy to customize with different cheeses or vegetables
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Comfort food that works year-round
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the dish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and drain excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Spoon half of the soup mixture on top and spread gently. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheeses. Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set.
Cooking Notes
- Slice potatoes thin and evenly so they cook through
- Cover tightly during baking to prevent drying out
- Let rest before serving for clean slices
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting
- Drain excess grease from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole
Variations
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra flavor
- Use ground turkey instead of ground beef
- Swap cheddar for Colby Jack or Monterey Jack
- Add a layer of cooked bacon for smoky flavor
- Mix in frozen corn or peas for added texture
- Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom
Tips
- A mandoline helps slice potatoes evenly
- Yukon gold potatoes also work well
- Season each layer lightly for better flavor
- Add extra cheese on top if you like a thicker crust
- If potatoes are thick, extend covered baking time
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Add a spoon of sour cream on top
- Great with roasted broccoli or green beans
- Perfect as a stand-alone meal
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values
Calories: 420
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 22g
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze unbaked or baked. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why are my potatoes not soft?
They may be sliced too thick or need more covered baking time.
Can I use raw potatoes?
Yes, this recipe is designed for raw potatoes.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With tender potatoes, savory beef, and layers of melted cheese, it’s a dependable recipe that works for busy nights, family gatherings, or cozy weekends. Simple, hearty, and always delicious, this casserole deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.