If you're looking for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that will please the whole family, look no further! This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Packed with hearty ingredients and layered with flavor, this casserole is a simple, one-dish wonder that's sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Follow along for a step-by-step guide, helpful tips, and variations to make this dish your own!

What is Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a savory, baked dish made with layers of sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef (hamburger), cheese, and sometimes a creamy sauce or gravy. It's a classic comfort food recipe that’s not only budget-friendly but also customizable to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. It's a versatile meal, perfect for any occasion, that combines the rich flavors of beef with the wholesome, satisfying texture of potatoes. Now, let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to create this tasty dish.
Ingredients List for Hamburger Potato Casserole
Here are the essential ingredients for making a traditional Hamburger Potato Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef is preferred for this recipe to reduce excess fat.
- 4-5 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their firm texture after baking.
- 1 medium onion – Finely chopped to add flavor and depth to the casserole.
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced for extra savory flavor.
- 2 cups shredded cheese – Cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a gooey, melty top.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – This will form the creamy base, but you can substitute with other cream-based soups if desired.
- ½ cup milk – Helps to thin out the soup mixture for better layering.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a little smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Optional, for a herby boost.
- Butter or nonstick cooking spray – For greasing the baking dish.
Ingredients List for Optional Add-ins
To make the Hamburger Potato Casserole even more delicious or to customize it according to your preferences, here are some additional ingredients you can consider:
- 1 cup of vegetables – Such as peas, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.
- ½ cup sour cream – For an extra creamy texture.
- ¼ cup chopped green onions – For a mild onion flavor with a bit of color.
- Bacon bits – For a smoky, crispy topping.
- Diced tomatoes – For a slight acidity that balances the richness of the dish.
- Hot sauce or chili flakes – If you want to add some heat to the casserole.
These optional ingredients can be added according to personal preferences or dietary needs. Now, let's explore some possible substitutions and variations to suit different tastes or available pantry items.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best parts about making a casserole is how flexible the recipe can be. If you're missing an ingredient or want to switch things up, here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you're looking for a leaner option, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. The flavors will still be rich and savory.
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-dense version of this dish.
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based meat alternative, dairy-free cheese, and a vegan cream of mushroom soup to create a vegan-friendly version of the casserole.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: If you're not a fan of cream of mushroom, cream of chicken or even cream of celery soup can work as a substitute.
- Different Cheeses: Try experimenting with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack could bring new flavor dimensions to the dish.
- Spices and Seasonings: Add taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired casserole, or throw in some curry powder for a unique twist.
With these substitutions and variations, you can make the casserole fit whatever mood or dietary requirements you have. Now let’s walk through the steps on how to cook this delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into uniform slices, about ¼-inch thick. Set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the can of cream of mushroom soup and the milk until well combined. This will be your creamy sauce for the casserole layers.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Start by layering half of the potato slices 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, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, soup mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow the cheese to get bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Let it Rest and Serve
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to set before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
How to Cook Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Hamburger Potato Casserole is straightforward, but there are a few tips that can help ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: For even cooking, make sure all the potato slices are of similar thickness. A mandoline slicer can help you achieve perfect slices quickly.
- Season Layers Well: Don’t forget to season each layer of potatoes and beef to ensure a flavorful result.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure your casserole isn’t overcrowded with too many ingredients, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Test for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the potatoes are tender before removing the casserole from the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this casserole, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not Pre-Cooking the Ground Beef: Don’t skip browning the ground beef before assembling the casserole. This ensures the beef is fully cooked and flavorful.
- Using Potatoes That Are Too Thick: Slices that are too thick can result in uneven cooking, with some potatoes still hard when the rest of the casserole is done.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving allows it to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Serving and Presentation Tips
For a delicious meal that looks as good as it tastes, here are some serving and presentation ideas:
How to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole
Serve your Hamburger Potato Casserole hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Potato Casserole
To elevate the presentation, garnish the casserole with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. For extra flair, you can sprinkle crispy bacon bits or additional shredded cheese on top just before serving.
Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Prepare and assemble the casserole, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. Check the doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the dish.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped, and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a family-friendly, comforting meal that's perfect for any night of the week. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re making it as-is or customizing it with your favorite ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don't forget to bookmark this recipe for those busy nights when you need a quick and delicious meal!
PrintEasy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
This easy hamburger potato casserole recipe is a perfect family-friendly meal, featuring tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheese. The layers of potatoes and beef come together in a deliciously creamy sauce, creating a comforting, all-in-one casserole that everyone will love. Ideal for busy weeknights, this hearty dish is simple to make and full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Potatoes
- Onion
- Cheddar cheese
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Milk
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Slice potatoes thinly and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased casserole dish.
- Add a layer of ground beef and pour half of the soup mixture over the beef.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and bake for 1 hour. Remove cover and bake for another 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in garlic powder or paprika to the beef.
- Feel free to substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup.
- You can add veggies like green beans or corn for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
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