If you’re craving a comforting dinner that wraps up the cozy flavors of home in one delicious dish, this Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Featuring layers of tender sliced potatoes, savory browned ground beef, and a creamy mushroom sauce, it’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to gather around the table. It’s simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, making it a reliable go-to when you want hearty, no-fuss food that feels like a big, welcoming hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe right is all about using simple, straightforward ingredients that each add a unique touch to the flavor and texture. Every component plays a part—from the rich ground beef bringing savory depth, to the creamy soup and milk that create a luscious sauce, all resting on a bed of tender potatoes that soak up all the good stuff.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean to keep the casserole hearty without being greasy.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base that elevates the beef flavor.
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for softness and to soak up the sauce.
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup: This gives the casserole its creamy, rich body and comforting taste.
- ½ cup milk: Softens the soup and helps create a smooth sauce that binds everything together.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar: Melts beautifully on top, adding sharpness and a golden finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Beef and Onion
Start by browning your ground beef with the diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. This step brings out a rich, savory flavor as the meat caramelizes slightly and the onion softens. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy while retaining fullness of flavor.
Step 2: Mixing the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creamy mixture is the heart of the casserole sauce, ensuring each layer stays moist and tender while adding that classic comfort food richness.
Step 3: Layering the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then start layering: lay down a layer of thinly sliced potatoes first, then spread half the browned beef and onion mixture, followed by half the soup-milk mixture. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used. This layering technique ensures each bite combines tender potatoes, savory beef, and creamy sauce.
Step 4: Baking Covered
Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 375 °F oven for 45 minutes. Baking covered allows the potatoes to soften fully while the flavors meld together into a harmonious, hearty casserole.
Step 5: Adding Cheese and Final Bake
After the initial bake, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar on top. Return the dish to the oven for another 15 minutes uncovered—this melts the cheese and creates a bubbly, golden crust that’s absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of brightness that complements the richness of the casserole beautifully. For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream on the side brings a cool, tangy contrast that pairs perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole works wonders as a one-dish meal, but if you want to round it out, think crisp green salads, steamed broccoli, or roasted green beans to add freshness and a crunch that balances the creamy, soft textures inside the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual family dinners, serve it straight from the baking dish to keep things cozy. For a fancier touch, try scooping individual servings into small ramekins or cast-iron skillets for personal casseroles. You can also garnish with sliced green onions or crumbled bacon for added flair and flavor layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe, simply cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they stay delicious for up to 3 days, maintaining that comforting flavor and texture.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well before baking. Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a little extra time as needed to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover casserole pieces in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350 °F oven until heated through and bubbly—about 20–25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, though baking helps maintain the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use different kinds of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While starchy potatoes like Russets are ideal for a soft, creamy texture, Yukon Golds or red potatoes work too, providing a firmer bite and a slightly sweeter flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?
You can reduce fat by choosing lean ground beef or even ground turkey. Using low-fat cheese and milk can also lighten it up. Adding vegetables like frozen peas or carrots not only adds nutrition but also enhances color and flavor.
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Definitely! Cream of chicken soup is a popular alternative if you want a milder taste. You can also make a homemade white sauce if you prefer to avoid canned soup altogether.
What can I add to make the casserole more colorful?
Mixing in frozen peas during layering adds a lovely pop of green. Diced bell peppers, corn, or carrots are also excellent choices to brighten both the appearance and flavor.
How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Thin slices and layering evenly help the potatoes cook through thoroughly. Covering the dish during most of the baking traps steam and moisture, softening the potatoes perfectly by the time it’s done.
Final Thoughts
This Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those special dishes that pulls everyone to the table with its comforting aroma and satisfying layers of flavor. It’s wonderfully easy to make, with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly heartwarming. Whether you’re cooking a family dinner or preparing meals to enjoy throughout the week, this casserole is a delicious, dependable choice that always hits the spot. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again.
Print
Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A cozy, old-fashioned hamburger potato casserole featuring tender, thinly sliced potatoes layered with savory ground beef and onions, all smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
Sauce and Toppings
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion until fully cooked and fragrant. Drain off any excess fat to prevent greasiness.
- Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth and well blended.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by layering the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom, followed by spreading the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the potatoes. Pour the soup and milk mixture over the top to cover evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and absorb flavors.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Notes
- Add frozen peas for a splash of color and extra nutrition.
- Try substituting cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for a milder flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main / Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Home Style
