Introduction

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that combines ground beef, potatoes, and cheese in one comforting dish. For another delicious ground beef and potato meal, try this Kylie Recipes Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup. Both recipes offer simple preparation and family-friendly flavors that make busy evenings more manageable.

Ingredients

This hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole combines savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and tender potatoes for a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Hamburger Potato Casserole comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its streamlined preparation steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice 4 large russet potatoes into uniform ¼-inch rounds. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking throughout your Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. This prevents the casserole from becoming gummy.

Step 2 — Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula as it cooks.

Drain off any excess fat from the beef to keep your Hamburger Potato Casserole from being greasy. Season with 1 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3 — Sauté the Aromatics

Add 1 diced onion to the same skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.

For extra flavor, you can add ½ cup of diced celery or bell peppers at this stage. Cook until vegetables begin to soften.

Step 4 — Create the Sauce

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This will help thicken your casserole sauce.

Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of whole milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5 — Layer the Casserole

Spread half of the potato slices in an even layer in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.

Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture. Press down gently to compact the layers, which helps the Hamburger Potato Casserole hold together when served.

Step 6 — Add the Topping

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For a crispy topping, you can mix the cheese with ½ cup of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, making sure to tent it slightly so the cheese doesn’t stick to the foil during baking.

Step 7 — Bake the Casserole

Bake in a preheated 375°F oven, covered, for 45 minutes. The foil cover traps steam to help cook the potatoes through without drying out the casserole.

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 8 — Rest and Serve

Let the Hamburger Potato Casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut clean portions.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F for food safety.

Nutritional Information

Calories	385
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	20g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — Lighter protein option with a milder flavor profile that still pairs well with potatoes.
• Sweet Potatoes — Higher in fiber and vitamins than russet potatoes, adding natural sweetness to your Hamburger Potato Casserole.
• Cauliflower Florets — Low-carb alternative that absorbs savory flavors while reducing overall carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-Free Cheese & Greek Yogurt — Plant-based cheese and unsweetened yogurt maintain creaminess without dairy.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Seasonings — Use salt-free herb blends and reduced-sodium broths to control salt levels.
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs or Oats — Crunchy topping alternatives that keep the Hamburger Potato Casserole gluten-free.
• Lentils or Mushrooms — Plant-based protein swaps that add earthy depth and texture to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this comforting Hamburger Potato Casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a complete and colorful family meal.
• This casserole is perfect for potlucks and casual gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and serve a crowd.
• For a cozy weeknight dinner, serve it directly from the baking dish with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Top individual servings with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives for a restaurant-style finish.
• This hearty dish is an excellent choice for game day parties or after-school meals when you need something satisfying.

For a beautiful presentation, garnish your Hamburger Potato Casserole with fresh parsley just before serving to add a pop of color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw potatoes, which cook unevenly and leave the dish watery. Fix: Parboil sliced potatoes for 5–7 minutes to ensure they become perfectly tender.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish, preventing proper browning and heat circulation. Fix: Use a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread ingredients in even, thin layers.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of draining excess grease from the cooked ground beef. Fix: Drain beef thoroughly after browning to avoid a greasy, unappetizing final texture.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the meat and potato layers, resulting in a bland Hamburger Potato Casserole. Fix: Season each component generously with salt, pepper, and aromatics like garlic and onion powder.
• Mistake: Adding too much liquid, which turns the casserole soupy instead of creamy. Fix: Use just enough broth or cream sauce to moisten ingredients without submerging them.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, causing the top to burn before the potatoes are cooked through. Fix: Bake at 375°F (190°C) covered for most of the time, then uncover briefly to brown the top.
• Mistake: Forgetting to let the Hamburger Potato Casserole rest after baking, making it difficult to slice neatly. Fix: Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes so the layers set and flavors meld.
• Mistake: Using low-fat cheese that doesn’t melt well, compromising the creamy, cohesive texture. Fix: Opt for full-fat cheddar or a melty cheese blend for optimal gooeyness and flavor.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Hamburger Potato Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, or microwave until steaming hot.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Hamburger Potato Casserole reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole Recipe for another delicious dinner idea. We’d love to hear how yours turned out—please leave a comment or subscribe for more tasty recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Hamburger Potato Casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This makes it a great option for meal prep.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, a simple white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk works well in this Hamburger Potato Casserole.

How can I make this casserole recipe more cheesy?

For a cheesier Hamburger Potato Casserole, mix an extra cup of shredded cheddar into the filling. You can also top the dish with more cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for a deliciously browned, cheesy crust.