Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes capture the essence of hearty, comforting home cooking like hamburger potato casserole. This layered masterpiece combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce into a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or prepping a dish for a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

Not only is it budget-friendly and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand, but it’s also endlessly versatile, offering plenty of room for customization. With easy prep, minimal cleanup, and family-friendly flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has remained a favorite for generations.

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Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Here’s why you’ll love making (and eating) this hamburger potato casserole:

• Affordable and Accessible: Uses staple ingredients that are easy to find.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, spices, or alternative meats for a unique twist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

For more inspiration for crowd-pleasing recipes, check out this easy cheesy sausage and beef dip, another comfort food classic.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Hamburger and Potato Casserole

One of the best things about hamburger potato casserole is its simplicity. The ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, making it a go-to recipe when you’re short on time or energy.

Core Ingredients

• 1 pound of ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor and texture).
• 4-5 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), thinly sliced.
• 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken, if preferred).
• 1 cup of milk.
• 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (cheddar is a classic choice).

Optional Add-Ins

• Vegetables: Add diced onions, bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Seasonings: Enhance the flavor with garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, or Italian seasoning.
• Meat Alternatives: Substitute the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.

For a meal that feels complete, pair this casserole with an American-Italian pasta salad. The zesty flavors of the salad complement the creamy richness of the casserole perfectly.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

Creating this comforting dish is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get it just right.

1. Preparation for Your Ground Beef and Potato Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and slice them into thin, even rounds. This ensures they cook evenly in the casserole.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet on medium heat and add the ground beef. Stir occasionally to break it apart while it cooks. Once the meat is no longer pink and fully browned, drain any excess grease.

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2. Assemble the Casserole

• Layer 1: Arrange a single layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of your prepared dish.
• Layer 2: Spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes.
• Layer 3: Pour half of the soup and milk mixture (whisked together) evenly over the beef.
• Repeat: Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of shredded cheese.

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3. Bake the Casserole

• First Stage: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and absorb the sauce.
• Second Stage: Remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven for another 15-20 minutes. This ensures the top layer of cheese becomes golden brown and crispy.

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4. Let It Cool

Once the casserole is out of the oven, allow it to rest on the counter for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps the layers settle, making it easier to serve and ensuring the flavors are perfectly blended.

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Tips for Customizing This Classic Hamburger Potato Casserole

While the classic recipe is delicious as-is, don’t hesitate to get creative:

• For Extra Veggies: Layer in sliced zucchini, shredded carrots, or broccoli.
• Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Herbaceous Twist: Sprinkle fresh parsley, chives, or thyme on top before serving.

For more casserole ideas, check out this Cracker Barrel-inspired meatloaf recipe—another comfort food favorite!

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Serving Suggestions for Your Hearty Hamburger and Potato Bake

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides for a balanced meal:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing.
• Warm, buttery rolls or garlic bread.
• Steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus.

For a sweet ending, consider serving a slice of Philadelphia cheesecake to complete the meal.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions for Your Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

One of the best parts of this dish is its suitability for leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Storage

• Refrigerator: Place leftovers in a sealed container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Divide the casserole into portions and wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. They can last up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Oven: Transfer the portion to an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F (175°C) until fully warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power for reheating individual servings to prevent the casserole from becoming too dry.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipes

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the Best Potato for This Recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds add a creamy richness.

Can I Use a Slow Cooker Instead of an Oven?

Absolutely. Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The result is just as delicious!

How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?

Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free variety and double-check your seasonings for hidden gluten.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 20g

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Why This Recipe is a Keeper

With its layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, this hamburger potato casserole is a timeless dish that delivers taste and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing meals ahead, or simply craving something hearty, this casserole will never disappoint. Make it tonight and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors of a true comfort food classic!