If you're looking for a hearty, budget-friendly meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table, this Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole is the perfect choice. Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is easy to prepare and loved by the whole family. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead, this casserole is a go-to favorite that never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – No fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Affordable & Filling – Uses pantry staples and is perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
- Customizable – Add your favorite seasonings, cheeses, or extra veggies for a personal touch.
Now, let’s dive into this irresistible comfort food and learn how to make it from scratch!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef – Lean or extra-lean beef works best to avoid excess grease.
- 4-5 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal for their texture and flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Adds flavor and a slight crunch.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – The base for the creamy sauce. You can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery if preferred.
- ½ cup milk – Helps thin the soup for a smooth sauce.
For Extra Flavor:
- 1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a rich, cheesy topping. Feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Salt and black pepper – Enhances the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Optional, but adds depth to the seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and color.
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs – A nice touch for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly baked casserole.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick).
- Uniform slices ensure even cooking. A mandoline slicer can make this process quick and consistent.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces while cooking.
- Once the beef is no longer pink, add the chopped onions and cook for 2-3 more minutes until softened.
- Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed soup and milk until smooth.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
- Spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the creamy soup mixture evenly on top.
- Repeat with another layer of potatoes, ground beef, and the remaining soup mixture.
6. Add Cheese & Bake
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
- Check that the potatoes are tender by inserting a fork; they should be soft and easily pierced.
7. Let It Rest & Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Potato Casserole
✔ Slice the potatoes thinly – This ensures even cooking and prevents undercooked potatoes.
✔ Drain excess grease from the cooked beef – Too much grease can make the casserole oily.
✔ Add extra veggies – Try mixing in sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
✔ Experiment with different cheeses – Besides cheddar, try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist.
✔ Make ahead – Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and store in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.
What to Serve with Hamburger Potato Casserole
This dish is a hearty meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
- A slice of garlic bread for extra indulgence.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
✔ Made with Simple Ingredients – You likely have everything in your kitchen already.
✔ Easy & Effortless – Minimal prep work with a hands-off baking time.
✔ Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved – A comforting classic that everyone loves.
✔ Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day!
Give this Simple Hamburger and Potato Casserole a try, and it might just become a new family favorite. It's the ultimate comfort food that’s delicious, satisfying, and easy to make.
Enjoy your meal!