First, I just want to say thank you for stopping by my little corner of comfort food heaven today! It means so much to share recipes that warm the soul and bring family and friends together — and this Hamburger Potato Casserole does exactly that. It’s the kind of no-fuss, stick-to-your-ribs dish that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly night.
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What Makes This Hamburger Potato Casserole So Special?
This casserole is a timeless family classic — layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and lots of melty cheddar cheese. It’s easy to prep, budget-friendly, and turns humble ingredients into something spectacular. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- One pan wonder: No complicated steps — just layer and bake!
- Comfort food at its best: Warm, cheesy, hearty goodness in every bite.
- Perfect for leftovers: It reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.
- Crowd-pleaser: Bring it to a potluck and watch it disappear.
What Does It Taste Like?
Think of a shepherd’s pie, but with tender slices of buttery potatoes instead of mashed. The creamy mushroom sauce seeps into the potatoes while the seasoned beef and gooey cheddar create the ultimate cozy bite. One spoonful and you’ll know exactly why this recipe has been a family staple for generations!
Benefits of This Recipe
✔️ Affordable pantry ingredients
✔️ Beginner-friendly
✔️ Make ahead and freeze for busy nights
✔️ Big batch = leftovers you’ll look forward to
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1½ pounds |
| Russet potatoes | 4 large, peeled & thinly sliced |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.75 oz), condensed |
| Milk | ¾ cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley | Chopped, for garnish |
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Foil
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
✨ Make it extra creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the soup mixture.
✨ Add veggies: Layer in thin slices of bell peppers or frozen peas.
✨ Change the cheese: Try mozzarella or Colby Jack for a twist.
✨ Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole
1️⃣ Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Prepare ingredients: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, chop the onion, and shred the cheese.
3️⃣ Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
4️⃣ Mix the sauce: In a bowl, stir together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5️⃣ Layer it up: Place half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Top with half the beef mixture and half the cheese. Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
6️⃣ Pour the sauce: Evenly pour the soup mixture over the entire casserole, letting it seep through the layers.
7️⃣ Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
8️⃣ Finish & serve: Remove the foil, garnish with fresh parsley, and let it cool slightly before serving!
What to Serve With Hamburger Potato Casserole
- A crisp green salad for a fresh crunch
- Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
- Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
- A dollop of sour cream on the side for extra indulgence!
Tips for Perfect Casserole Every Time
✔️ Slice potatoes thinly and evenly so they cook through.
✔️ Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting so it holds together nicely.
✔️ If the top needs extra browning, uncover for the last 10 minutes of baking.
How to Store & Reheat
- Store: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave or covered in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I use a different soup?
Sure! Cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup are delicious alternatives.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Try swapping the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and lentils — it’s just as hearty!
Wrapping It Up
This Hamburger Potato Casserole is exactly what comfort food dreams are made of — simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table. I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
If you loved this, check out my Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole or Loaded Baked Potato Soup — more cozy classics to warm you up!
👉 Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment, share your photo on Pinterest, and tag me — your casseroles make my day!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 520 | Protein: 29g | Carbs: 34g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 3g
Thanks again for cooking with me — happy casserole making! 💛✨