Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that layers savory ground beef with tender potatoes, all topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s not overly rich, making it a perfect dish for any season.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix until smooth.
4. Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 27g
• Calcium: 300mg (25% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (15% DV)
• Vitamin A: 15% DV
• Vitamin C: 20% DV

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Casserole

Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food that brings together hearty ingredients in a simple, satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual dinner, or just craving something warm and filling, this dish is a go-to option. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese creates an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. One of the biggest advantages of this casserole is its versatility. You can customize the seasonings, add extra vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal that allows you to prepare everything in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

The History of Casseroles

Casseroles have been a staple in American households for generations. Originating as a practical way to use up leftovers, they became increasingly popular in the 1950s with the advent of canned soups and easy-to-make one-dish meals. The concept of layering ingredients in a single baking dish was both time-saving and economical, making casseroles a beloved dish in many homes. Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic take on this tradition. It draws inspiration from shepherd’s pie and scalloped potatoes, combining the richness of a meat dish with the heartiness of a potato-based meal. This combination makes it a well-balanced meal that provides protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients in every bite.

Variations of Hamburger Potato Casserole

One of the best things about this casserole is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Cheesy Version: If you love extra cheese, consider adding a layer of mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for extra gooeyness.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a little heat.
• Vegetable-Loaded: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for additional nutrients and flavor.
• Creamy Alternative: Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of cheddar or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower slices or zucchini to reduce the carb content while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Hamburger Potato Casserole

While this dish is filling on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent accompaniments:

• Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a touch of sweetness and texture.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread complements the savory flavors of the dish.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy layers of the casserole.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This casserole makes excellent leftovers, and storing it properly will keep it fresh for days.

• Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm up individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Making the Perfect Hamburger Potato Casserole

To ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Slice the potatoes thinly: This helps them cook evenly and become tender. A mandoline slicer is a great tool for achieving uniform slices.
• Season each layer: To ensure every bite is flavorful, season the potatoes and beef as you layer them.
• Use high-quality cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a richer taste compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Cover while baking: Covering the casserole with foil for the first hour prevents the cheese from burning while allowing the potatoes to soften properly.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Families

With today’s busy schedules, finding meals that are both convenient and nutritious can be a challenge. This casserole is a lifesaver for families because:

• It’s a one-dish meal: No need to prepare multiple dishes—everything cooks together in a single pan.
• It’s budget-friendly: With affordable ingredients like potatoes, ground beef, and canned soup, this dish is easy on the wallet.
• It’s kid-approved: The creamy, cheesy texture and familiar flavors make it a hit with picky eaters.
• It’s great for meal prep: You can assemble the casserole in advance and bake it when needed, making it a perfect choice for meal planning.

Health Benefits of Hamburger Potato Casserole

While this dish is considered comfort food, it still offers nutritional benefits:

• Protein from ground beef: Helps with muscle repair and overall body function.
• Potatoes for energy: A great source of complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy.
• Cheese for calcium: Supports bone health and adds a rich flavor.
• Onions and garlic: Contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity, heartiness, and flavor in one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just want a satisfying homemade meal, this casserole is always a great choice. Its versatility allows you to get creative with ingredients, and it’s a fantastic way to bring people together over a warm, delicious meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic dish that never goes out of style!