This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole reminds me of cozy weeknights with my family. My grandma used to make a version of this, and the smell alone brings back so many happy memories. This recipe is my take on that classic comfort food, with a few tweaks for extra flavor and ease. The creamy potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese create a taste that everyone will love. Imagine digging into a warm, satisfying casserole after a long day. If you are looking for cheesy hamburger potato casserole that will be a hit with the whole family, you are in the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- It’s incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
- Prep time is minimal, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have – I bet you do!
- It’s budget-friendly and feeds a crowd, making it great for large families or potlucks.
- A complete meal in one dish – protein, carbs, and veggies all together!
- Kids and adults both love it; even my pickiest eaters gobble it up.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies; throw in some bell peppers or mushrooms!
Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (aim for about 1/8 inch thick!)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, pre-shredded for convenience
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (this is the creamy base, trust me!)
- ¾ cup whole milk (for that extra richness!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (because presentation matters, right?)
Oh, and a little tip: you *can* substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this hamburger potato bake, but honestly, the beef just gives it that classic, comforting flavor. The salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika are there to enhance all the other yummy flavors!
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important! A preheated oven ensures the casserole cooks evenly.
- Step 2: Prepare the potatoes and onion. Peel those potatoes and slice them thinly—consistency is key here, so try to get them all about the same thickness. Then, chop up that onion.
- Step 3: Brown the ground beef. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease! Season it all with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Trust me, the aroma of that browning beef is gonna make you hungry!
- Step 4: Make the soup mixture. In a separate bowl, just mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture is what really brings the whole potato beef casserole together.
- Step 5: Layer the casserole in the baking dish. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange a layer of those sliced potatoes. Top ’em with half of the beef mixture, then pour half of that creamy soup mixture over it. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Repeat all those layers again. Make sure everything’s even for the best results!
- Step 6: Bake the cheesy ground beef and potato casserole! Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Then, uncover it and bake for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender and the top is golden and bubbly. That color change and bubbly cheese? That’s how you know it’s ready!
- Step 7: Rest and garnish. Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with some chopped parsley. Letting it rest helps it set a bit, making it easier to serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Want to take your cheesy ground beef and potato bake to the next level? Here are a few insider tips I’ve picked up over the years. First, don’t skimp on the cheese! A generous layer of cheddar (or your favorite!) makes all the difference. Also, make sure your potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly – this ensures they cook through properly and you don’t end up with any crunchy surprises. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings! A little extra garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delicious kick to this classic comfort dish.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Okay, listen up! The key is *really* thinly slicing those potatoes. I’m talking almost paper-thin. This ensures they cook evenly and become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Also, don’t overcook the beef when you’re browning it; slightly undercooked is better, as it will continue to cook in the oven and you don’t want it to get tough!
Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead meal. You can totally assemble the ground beef potato casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add about 15 minutes to the baking time to make sure it’s heated through. Perfect for busy weeknights, right?
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Alright, let’s troubleshoot! First things first: avoid overcrowding the skillet when you’re browning the beef. Cook it in batches if you need to – you want it to brown, not steam. Also, a super important tip: make sure the potatoes are nicely submerged in the soup mixture to prevent them from drying out. Nobody wants dry potatoes in their cheesy dinner casserole!
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Honestly, you can just dig right into this cheesy potato bake straight from the oven – that’s how we usually do it! But if you’re feeling fancy, you can plate it up nicely. A crisp, simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the *perfect* counterpoint to the richness of the casserole. Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans also work great. Since this is a pretty hearty main course, it’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or even a potluck. Oh, and a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives? Don’t even get me started – pure perfection!
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Okay, so here’s the lowdown on what you’re getting in each serving (approximately, of course!) of this delicious and creamy casserole:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Now, remember—this nutritional information is just an estimate and can totally vary based on the specific ingredients you use and your portion sizes. But hey, it’s a good ballpark, right?
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Got leftovers? Lucky you! To keep your cheesy hamburger potato bake fresh, let it cool completely, then pop it into an airtight container. It’ll happily chill in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Want to keep it longer? Freeze it for up to 2 months – just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, the oven at 350°F (175°C) is your best bet to revive that crispy top and warm it through evenly. Or, if you’re just heating up a single serving of ground beef potato casserole, the microwave works like a charm. A tiny splash of milk during reheating can help bring back that creamy goodness – trust me on this one!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! While I love the classic flavor of cheddar, this ground beef potato casserole is super versatile. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
- What other cheeses work well? Colby Jack is a great option for a slightly milder flavor, or Monterey Jack for a really melty, gooey texture. A blend of cheeses is also fantastic – maybe a mix of cheddar and mozzarella?
- Does the type of cheese affect the texture? Yep, definitely! Some cheeses melt better than others. A good sharp cheddar gives you a great balance of flavor and that perfect, melty pull. But honestly, use whatever you love!
What can I add to this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole to make it healthier?
Love that you’re thinking about making this comforting dish a little lighter! There are tons of easy tweaks you can make.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! This is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some chopped spinach stirred into the beef mixture would be delicious.
- Can I use lean ground beef? Definitely! Using lean ground beef is a simple swap that significantly reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor. You could even try ground turkey for an even leaner option!
How do I prevent the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole from drying out?
Nobody wants a dry casserole! Here are a few tips to keep your cheesy potato casserole nice and moist:
- Should I add more liquid? Making sure those potatoes are nicely nestled in the soup mixture is key. If it seems a little dry before baking, go ahead and add a splash more milk to the soup mixture.
- Is it better to bake it covered or uncovered? Baking the casserole covered for most of the baking time really helps to trap moisture and keeps everything nice and tender. Then, uncover it for the last 30 minutes or so to get that golden, bubbly top!
Variations of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole You Can Try
Want to mix things up a little? I’m all about experimenting! This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few fun variations to get you started:
- Vegan: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based ground beef substitute. Use dairy-free cheddar cheese (there are some surprisingly good ones out there now!) and make sure you grab a vegan cream of mushroom soup.
- Gluten-Free: The easiest tweak ever! Just double-check that the cream of mushroom soup you’re using is certified gluten-free.
- Spicy: Craving some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture. A little goes a long way!
- Loaded: Oh yeah, this is where it gets *really* good! After baking, top your hamburger potato casserole with crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and a generous sprinkle of fresh green onions. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: An Unforgettable Dish
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. It combines ground beef, potatoes, onions, and a creamy cheese sauce for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds of ground beef
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.75 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes. Chop the onion.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease. Season the beef and onion mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange a layer of sliced potatoes. Top the potatoes with half of the beef and onion mixture, then pour half of the soup mixture over it. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: cheesy hamburger potato casserole, casserole recipe, ground beef casserole, potato casserole, easy casserole, family dinner
