Hamburger and Potato Casserole Recipe

Craving something warm, filling, and absolutely delicious? This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for busy weeknights, weekend family dinners, or even as a make-ahead meal. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, this casserole delivers hearty, savory flavors in every bite. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal, this dish will satisfy every craving. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering casserole? Let’s get started!

this Recipe

What is Hamburger and Potato Casserole?

Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that layers ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and cheese with a creamy sauce, all baked together until golden and bubbly. The result is a comforting, savory casserole that combines the flavors of a classic meat-and-potato dinner with the ease of a one-pan dish. This casserole is perfect for feeding a hungry family, and it's versatile enough to adapt to your personal taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

It’s also a great dish for leftovers—simply reheat and enjoy it the next day!

Ingredients List for Hamburger and Potato Casserole

To make this comforting casserole, you'll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef – Lean ground beef works well to avoid excess grease, but you can use regular beef and drain it if necessary.
• 5 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best. Thinly sliced so they cook evenly.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – Adds depth of flavor and complements the beef.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the dish a fragrant boost.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – You can mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Adds creaminess to the casserole. You can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery if preferred.
• 1 cup milk – To thin out the cream soup and create a smooth sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the beef and potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and a little color to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic.

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn – For extra color and texture.
• ½ cup sour cream – For added creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano – For an herby note.
• 1 cup crispy fried onions – As a crunchy topping.
• Bacon bits – To add a smoky, salty crunch.

Ingredients List for Hamburger and Potato Casserole (Optional Additions)

Looking to mix it up? Here are a few ingredients you can add to customize your casserole:

• Green beans or carrots – Add some sautéed or steamed vegetables to the mix for extra nutrition.
• Diced bell peppers – Stir these in with the onions and garlic for a sweet, peppery flavor.
• Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy richness that complements the beef and potatoes.

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is super flexible, so feel free to adjust it based on what you have on hand or any dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Ground turkey or chicken – Swap the ground beef for a lighter option like turkey or chicken.
• Sweet potatoes – Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, more nutritious twist.
• Vegetarian version – Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or black beans.
• Gluten-free – Ensure the cream soup is gluten-free, or make a homemade sauce by combining a roux with milk and seasonings.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make this Hamburger and Potato Casserole step-by-step.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of butter.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the beef is cooking, wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛-inch thick). You can use a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform slices, which will help the potatoes cook evenly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. If you’re using sour cream, stir it in at this stage. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to layer the casserole. Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Add a layer of potato slices over the beef, slightly overlapping the slices. Pour about ⅓ of the soup mixture over the potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Repeat the layers: ground beef, potatoes, soup mixture, and cheese. Continue until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

How to Cook Hamburger and Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

To sum up the steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish.
2. Cook the ground beef with onions, garlic, and seasonings.
3. Slice the potatoes thinly and prepare the creamy sauce with soup and milk.
4. Layer the casserole: beef, potatoes, soup, and cheese.
5. Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Slicing the potatoes too thick – Thick potato slices will take longer to cook and may remain undercooked. Make sure to slice them thinly and evenly for the best results.
• Not draining the beef – If you don’t drain the fat from the beef, the casserole can turn out greasy.
• Overcooking the casserole – Keep an eye on the casserole during the final minutes of baking to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Hamburger and Potato Casserole can elevate the dish. Here are a few tips:

• Garnish with fresh herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or green onions on top for a fresh finish.
• Serve with sides – Pair this casserole with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Add a crunchy topping – For extra texture, sprinkle crispy fried onions, crumbled bacon, or breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.

How to Serve Hamburger and Potato Casserole

This casserole is best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Cut it into squares or scoop portions onto plates. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger and Potato Casserole

Here are a few ways to make your casserole look extra appetizing:

• Cast-iron skillet – For a rustic presentation, bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet.
• Layer garnishes – Garnish the top with a sprinkle of extra cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream before serving for a pop of color.
• Individual portions – Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Hamburger and Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

Want to ensure your Hamburger and Potato Casserole turns out perfect every time? Keep these tips in mind:

• Use a mandoline to slice the potatoes evenly and thinly.
• Grate your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts. Grating your own cheese gives a creamier, smoother result.
• Make it ahead – You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, just add an additional 10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze Hamburger and Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, simply reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

What other cheese can I use?

Cheddar cheese works best, but you can use a variety of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

This Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family. With its layers of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy!

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