Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hamburger potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, with layers of savory ingredients that blend perfectly together. The tender, thinly sliced potatoes soak up the creamy mushroom soup, while the ground beef and onions add a satisfying, savory layer. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole offers a hearty and delicious meal that is sure to satisfy any appetite. It’s also easy to make and can be customized with various add-ins to suit your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a quiet dinner, this casserole is a surefire winner.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
In the prepared baking dish, layer the thinly sliced potatoes, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
Spread half of the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.
Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef layer, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your easy hamburger potato casserole!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or use lentils for a vegetarian option.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
Different cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.
Add veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the layers for added nutrition and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender. You can check by inserting a fork into the potatoes after the second bake time to ensure they are soft.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with other varieties such as cream of chicken or cream of celery, depending on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the cream of mushroom soup and some other ingredients may contain gluten. However, you can use gluten-free soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake according to the directions.

Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or roasted potatoes. Just layer them in the casserole dish as you would the raw potatoes, and bake until heated through and the cheese is melted.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this casserole in a smaller or larger dish?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the baking dish to suit your needs. Just make sure the casserole is at least 2 inches deep to ensure all the layers cook evenly.

How can I make this casserole more flavorful?

You can add extra spices or seasonings like paprika, Italian seasoning, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to boost the flavor.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can make this casserole in a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients as described and cook on low for 4-6 hours until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly.

Conclusion

This hamburger potato casserole is the perfect blend of savory and creamy, with layers of tender potatoes, hearty ground beef, and melted cheese. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that can be customized to your taste and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole will provide a comforting and delicious meal that everyone will love.