Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Comforting and Hearty Family Favorite
Few dishes bring as much comfort as a warm, cheesy, and hearty casserole. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a family favorite that combines layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheese in a creamy, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With simple pantry staples and a little preparation, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of the preparation process, from selecting the best ingredients to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. You’ll also find helpful tips to make this dish even more delicious and versatile.
Preparation Time & Cooking Duration
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
- Resting Time: 5–10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 3–4 large potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of cheddar soup)
- 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Green onions, sliced
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for extra crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick). Soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until softened.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir well.
- Drain any excess fat and set the beef mixture aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Add half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top.
- Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef and sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers: add the remaining potatoes, followed by the rest of the ground beef, then the remaining sauce.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Layer
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella (if using) on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy hamburger potato casserole pairs well with:
✔️ A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
✔️ Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
✔️ Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for an extra comforting meal
Additional Tips & Variations
Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
Swap the Protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different twist.
Crispy Topping Option: For added crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top before baking.
Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives, and swap the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade dairy-free version.
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients in a flavorful, creamy, and cheesy bake. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! Would you add any special ingredients to make it your own? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments!