Introduction

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce in one comforting dish. If you enjoy hamburger and potato combinations, you might also like this Kylie Recipes Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup or these fun Mini Tater Tot Cheeseburgers Recipe for another quick family meal option.

Ingredients

This comforting Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole comes together with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that bakes into a bubbly, golden-brown family favorite.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups frozen diced potatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)

Timing

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

Context: This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather 1 pound of ground beef, 4–5 medium potatoes, 1 can of condensed cream soup, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes to ensure even cooking in your Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Step 2 — Brown the Ground Beef

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully browned, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole. For extra flavor, season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of onion powder while cooking.

Step 3 — Layer the Casserole Base

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom. Spread the cooked hamburger evenly over the potatoes, then top with the remaining potato slices.

Step 4 — Add the Creamy Mixture

In a bowl, mix one can of condensed cream of mushroom or celery soup with ½ cup of milk. Pour this creamy sauce evenly over the layered ingredients, making sure it seeps between the potatoes for maximum moisture and flavor.

Step 5 — Top with Cheese and Cover

Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar or your favorite melting cheese over the top. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, which helps the potatoes cook through without drying out.

Step 6 — Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the covered Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole for 45 minutes. The foil keeps the dish moist while the potatoes become tender.

Step 7 — Uncover and Brown the Top

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Step 9 — Store and Reheat Leftovers

Cool any leftovers completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

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

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is wonderfully adaptable. Try these ingredient swaps to suit different dietary needs while keeping the comforting flavors intact.

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — A leaner protein alternative that still provides great flavor and texture.
• Sweet Potatoes — For a nutrient boost and lower glycemic impact compared to regular potatoes.
• Cauliflower Florets — A low-carb option that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
• Dairy-Free Cheese — Perfect for those avoiding dairy while maintaining the melty, cheesy topping.
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs — An easy swap to make this casserole gluten-free without sacrificing crunch.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Tomato Sauce — Reduces sodium content while keeping the dish moist and flavorful.
• Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream — Adds creaminess with more protein and less fat.
• Lentils or Mushrooms — Plant-based protein options that work well with the hearty casserole format.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Serve alongside steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
• This hearty casserole is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.
• For a comforting weekend meal, serve it straight from the baking dish with a dollop of sour cream on top.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness before serving.
• Portion individual servings into shallow bowls to showcase the layers of potatoes and savory hamburger.

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that fits beautifully into any casual dining occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw potatoes, which cook unevenly. Fix: Parboil sliced potatoes for 5–7 minutes to ensure they become tender.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish, leading to a soggy top. Fix: Use a 9×13-inch dish and layer ingredients evenly for proper heat circulation.
• Mistake: Skipping the browning step for ground beef. Fix: Always brown and drain the beef to remove excess grease and enhance flavor.
• Mistake: Adding too much liquid, making the casserole soupy. Fix: Limit broth or cream sauces to 1–1.5 cups, as potatoes release moisture while baking.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the layers, resulting in a bland dish. Fix: Season each component—meat, potatoes, and sauce—with salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Mistake: Covering with foil for the entire bake time, preventing a golden crust. Fix: Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover for the last 15–20 minutes.
• Mistake: Using low-fat cheese that doesn’t melt well. Fix: Opt for full-fat cheddar or Colby Jack for a creamy, cohesive topping.
• Mistake: Not letting the casserole rest before serving. Fix: Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes so the layers set and are easier to slice.

Storing Tips

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

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is reheated to a safe temperature.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a guaranteed family favorite for busy weeknights. We hope you love this simple, hearty dish as much as we do! Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments below. For more easy dinners, check out our One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe or Turkey Sloppy Joes. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I prepare this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until it is heated through.

Can I use a different type of potato in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other potatoes like russets or red potatoes in this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole. Just ensure they are sliced thinly and evenly so they cook properly. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the potato variety you choose.