Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Baked until bubbly and golden, this hearty casserole is perfect for feeding a hungry family or bringing to potlucks. The melted cheddar cheese and savory meat mixture create a satisfying, all-in-one dish that’s both budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a nostalgic meal that reminds you of home-cooked classics, this casserole delivers on flavor, warmth, and simplicity — a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. This hearty dish layers seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, creamy sauce, and melty cheese into a rich and satisfying bake.
It’s a filling, budget-friendly classic that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful casserole recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
CHEESY HAMBURGER POTATO CASSEROLE
Description
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish layered with flavor and rich texture.
Ground beef is cooked with onions and seasoning, then layered between thinly sliced potatoes and smothered in a creamy cheese sauce.
Baked until golden and bubbly, this casserole delivers the perfect balance of savory meat, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese in every bite.
Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it’s both budget-friendly and filling.
This all-in-one meal can be prepped ahead and reheated easily, making it a convenient favorite for any season.
Ingredients
Optional toppings:
Instructions
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Start by peeling (optional) and thinly slicing the potatoes to about 1/8-inch thickness. You can use a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices. Rinse the slices in cold water, then pat them dry to remove excess starch — this helps them cook evenly and prevents the casserole from getting too watery.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess grease if needed. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and optional thyme or onion powder.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Whisk until smooth. You can also add a bit of sour cream (2–3 tbsp) for added tang and creaminess, if desired. This sauce will bind the casserole and keep the potatoes moist as they bake.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (or similar size) baking dish with olive oil or butter. Now it’s time to layer:
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First layer: Spread half of the potato slices in the bottom of the dish.
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Second layer: Spoon half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
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Third layer: Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef and spread evenly.
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Fourth layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly.
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Repeat all layers once more: potatoes, beef, sauce, and finally the remaining cheese.
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Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. After an hour, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for 15–20 more minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the potatoes are fork-tender. You can broil it for the last 2–3 minutes for a crispier top if desired.
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Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 32g50%
- Saturated Fat 14g70%
- Cholesterol 95mg32%
- Sodium 900mg38%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 28g57%
- Calcium 200 mg
- Iron 2.5 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, a rich cheese sauce, and often a creamy soup base to bring everything together.
It’s a favorite for family dinners, potlucks, and weeknight meals. To make it truly outstanding, here are some helpful tips, tricks, and serving ideas to elevate your casserole game.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or all-purpose ones like Yukon Golds. They hold their shape well but also absorb flavor beautifully. Slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch) to ensure even cooking. Using a mandoline makes this easier and ensures uniformity.
2. Pre-cook the Potatoes (Optional but Recommended)
To avoid undercooked potatoes in the center, you can parboil the slices for 5–7 minutes or microwave them with a splash of water for a few minutes. This step speeds up baking and ensures soft, creamy layers.
3. Season Each Layer
Don’t rely only on the meat for flavor. Lightly salt and pepper the potato layers and consider adding herbs like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika between the layers. This adds depth and prevents bland bites.
4. Flavor the Ground Beef
Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic for a rich flavor base. You can also add Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, or beef bouillon to intensify the taste. Drain the fat well to avoid greasy results.
5. Cheese Matters
Use a blend of cheeses—cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for meltiness, and Monterey Jack or Colby for creaminess. Always grate cheese fresh if possible; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
6. Add Creaminess
A can of cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, or cheddar soup makes the casserole creamy and binds everything together. For a homemade alternative, whisk together a quick béchamel sauce using butter, flour, and milk or cream.
7. Bake Covered, Then Uncover
Cover the casserole with foil for the first 45 minutes to let the potatoes steam and soften. Uncover for the final 15–20 minutes to allow the top to brown and the cheese to bubble.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to avoid cracking the dish from the cold.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Bake and cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Serving Tricks & Pairing Ideas
1. Add a Fresh Element
Because the dish is rich and cheesy, pair it with something light. A simple green salad with vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli balances the meal perfectly.
2. Top It Right
For a bit of texture and extra flavor, sprinkle French-fried onions, buttered breadcrumbs, or crushed Ritz crackers on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
3. Customize with Mix-Ins
You can enhance the casserole by adding:
- Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat
- Cooked bacon bits for smokiness
- Frozen peas or corn for added color and nutrition
4. Serve It Creatively
Instead of baking in a single dish, try using individual ramekins or mini loaf pans for portioned servings, perfect for dinner parties or meal prep.
5. Use Leftovers Wisely
Turn leftovers into a delicious breakfast by reheating and topping with a fried egg or wrapping it in a tortilla for a breakfast burrito.
Tips and Variations
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge.
- Use different cheeses: Try mixing cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a more complex cheesy flavor.
- Add veggies: You can sneak in veggies like peas, corn, spinach, or sliced mushrooms between the layers for added nutrition.
- Creamy alternative: Instead of canned soup, make a homemade white sauce (béchamel) with butter, flour, milk, and broth for a less processed version.
- Spicy version: Add jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole (without cheese on top) for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and add cheese before baking as directed.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, covered with foil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal. A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast also pairs well with this rich and comforting dish.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
With its creamy layers, cheesy top, and hearty beef-potato combo, it’s the perfect cozy meal for any day of the week.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw potatoes or should they be pre-cooked?
You can use raw potatoes, but slicing them very thinly (about 1/8 inch) is important so they cook evenly within the casserole.
If you're short on time or prefer a softer texture, parboiling or microwaving the potato slices for a few minutes before layering can help speed up baking and ensure tenderness.
What type of cheese works best in this casserole?
Cheddar cheese is the most commonly used for its sharp flavor and excellent melting quality. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives both flavor and gooey texture. You can also mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder variation. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed. It also freezes well — bake it fully, let it cool, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
How can I make it healthier without losing flavor?
To lighten up the casserole, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey. Substitute some or all of the cheese with reduced-fat varieties. You can also swap heavy cream with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. Adding veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds flavor and texture without extra calories.
