Introduction
Hamburger potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy sauce. This casserole is an excellent choice for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Not only is it delicious and filling, but it’s also incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about making a perfect Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole from scratch. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook looking for a new family favorite, this dish is guaranteed to please.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean or regular)
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of cheddar soup (optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup sour cream for a creamier texture
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits for extra flavor
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, or green beans) for added nutrition
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Before you start preparing the ingredients, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and develop a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
2. Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds (about ¼-inch thick).
- Finely chop the onion.
- Shred the cheese if not pre-shredded.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add olive oil or butter and sauté the chopped onions until they become soft and translucent (about 2 minutes).
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Drain any excess grease.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar soup (if using), and milk.
- Stir well until smooth and evenly combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish.
- Add half of the cooked beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
- Pour half of the creamy soup mixture over the beef and potatoes.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Bread or Rolls: Pair with dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits on top for extra richness.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to put your own twist on this casserole? Here are some great ways to modify the recipe:
1. Healthier Version
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Opt for low-fat cheese and reduced-fat cream soups.
- Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
2. Spicy Version
- Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef for a kick.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
3. Vegetarian Version
- Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms and lentils.
- Use vegetarian cream soup and extra vegetables for a filling alternative.
4. Extra Cheesy Version
- Mix an additional ½ cup shredded cheese into the creamy sauce before layering.
- Add a cheese crust by broiling the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
1. Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
2. Freezing Instructions
- This casserole can be frozen before baking for a make-ahead meal.
- Assemble the dish as instructed but do not bake.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
3. Make-Ahead Tip
- You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the casserole a day in advance.
- Store it covered in the fridge and bake it fresh when needed.
Conclusion
Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With its simple ingredients, creamy texture, and cheesy topping, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s versatile enough to adapt to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Try this recipe today and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients! Have any tips or variations? Let us know in the comments below. Happy cooking! 😊
