This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying and delicious meal. Originating from the heart of home kitchens where simplicity meets nourishment, this casserole is a staple for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
My first experience with this dish was at my grandmother’s house on a chilly autumn evening. The smell of sizzling beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese filled the air, making it impossible to resist.
Over time, I’ve refined this recipe to enhance its texture and flavor while preserving the nostalgia of those home-cooked meals. This version includes a subtle twist—using a blend of cheeses and incorporating a touch of smoked paprika for depth.
If you love recipes that are easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Why Choose Hamburger Potato Casserole?
- Simple & Affordable – Made with pantry staples, this dish is budget-friendly yet incredibly satisfying.
- Rich & Creamy – The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and a velvety sauce creates the perfect comfort food.
- Customizable – You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or taste preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep – This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days.
- Family-Approved – A kid-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love!
Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
What sets this casserole apart as a favorite is its incredible versatility. The base recipe serves as a blank canvas, encouraging countless variations so that cooks can customize it to their liking. Ingredients can easily be adjusted to suit dietary needs or simply based on what’s available in the kitchen. This flexibility guarantees that the Hamburger Potato Casserole stays a go-to dish, no matter the occasion or dietary requirements.
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups thinly sliced, peeled Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (Cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the dish)
Equipment Needed: 2-quart baking dish, large skillet, mixing bowl, whisk, foil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease. Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and chopped onion.
- Assemble the layers: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the baking dish, followed by a portion of the beef mixture and soup sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
This casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and hearty flavors. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this dish guarantees satisfaction every time!
