Hey friend! I’m so glad you’re here today because what I’m about to share is a total game-changer for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and honestly? One of those dishes that gets better with every bite. Layers of tender sliced potatoes, savory beef and onion, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce all baked to bubbly perfection… it’s a warm hug in casserole form. ❤️
If easy comfort food is your jam, don’t forget to subscribe to my email list – I’ve got plenty more cozy, crowd-pleasing recipes just like this headed your way!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
This casserole brings big flavor without a lot of fuss – no need to pre-cook the potatoes or prep fancy ingredients. Everything comes together in one dish, and it makes enough to feed a hungry crew (or give you amazing leftovers for days!).
✔️ Hearty and filling – a full meal in one pan.
✔️ Classic comfort food with zero complicated steps.
✔️ Cheesy, creamy, savory goodness in every single bite.
✔️ Easy to customize – spice it up, add veggies, or make it ahead.
What Does It Taste Like?
It tastes like home. 🏡 Think layers of soft, buttery potatoes, flavorful ground beef and onion, and melty cheddar cheese all tied together with a creamy, cheesy sauce that bakes into a golden, bubbling top. It’s the kind of meal that makes you go back for seconds (and thirds…).
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef, crumbled | 1 pound |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 |
| Potatoes, peeled & sliced | 3 to 4 pounds |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 8 oz or more |
| Cheddar cheese soup (canned) | 1 can |
| Evaporated milk or whole milk | 12 oz |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | ½ tsp |
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Foil
- Sharp knife or mandoline (for slicing potatoes evenly)
Ingredient Additions & Swaps
✨ Add frozen peas, corn, or green beans between layers for a veggie boost.
✨ Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
✨ Use sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a more intense cheesy bite.
✨ Add a dash of garlic powder or paprika to the meat for extra seasoning.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook the Beef & Onion
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3️⃣ Slice the Potatoes
Peel and thinly slice 3–4 pounds of potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Try to keep the thickness consistent so they cook evenly.
4️⃣ Layer the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish:
- Layer ⅓ of the potato slices evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
- Add ⅓ of the beef and onion mixture.
- Top with ⅓ of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
5️⃣ Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 1 can cheddar cheese soup
- 12 oz evaporated milk (or whole milk)
- ½ cup regular milk
Pour the sauce evenly over the casserole, letting it seep into the layers.
6️⃣ Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour.
7️⃣ Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
8️⃣ Let It Rest & Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and makes serving easier.
What to Serve with It
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots
- Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
- Pickles or relish on the side for a tangy contrast
Tips for Casserole Success
✔️ Slice potatoes evenly – a mandoline is super helpful for this!
✔️ Want it cheesier? Add extra shredded cheese between layers.
✔️ Let it rest after baking – this helps it set and makes cleanup easier too.
✔️ Make it ahead – assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
How to Store & Reheat
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven covered with foil, or microwave individual portions.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked casserole wrapped tightly, or freeze leftovers. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 45–60 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hash browns instead of sliced potatoes?
Yes! Use frozen hash browns (thawed) for a shortcut – reduce baking time slightly.
Do I have to use cheddar cheese soup?
It adds creaminess and cheddar flavor, but you can substitute with homemade cheese sauce or condensed cream of mushroom/chicken soup in a pinch.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Layer as directed in a greased slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
Let’s Wrap This Up!
If you’re looking for an easy, cheesy, filling dinner that brings major comfort, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the answer. It’s warm, satisfying, and exactly the kind of no-fuss dinner your family will request again and again.
If you loved this dish, here are a few more recipes to try:
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake
- Tater Tot Taco Casserole
- Creamy Sausage & Potato Skillet
💛 Did you try it? I’d love to see your cheesy casseroles! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share your creation on Pinterest – your kitchen wins make my day!
Nutrition Info (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 25g
🧀🥔 Here’s to cheesy comfort food – happy baking and even happier eating!