Guide Hamburger Potato Casserole has been my go-to for years when I need a comforting, fuss-free meal. I remember my mom making a version when I was a kid, and the smell of savory ground beef and melting cheese filling the kitchen always meant pure comfort. This recipe is truly an easy hamburger potato casserole that comes together with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights. If you’ve ever wondered how to make hamburger potato casserole that’s both delicious and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Incredible flavor combination of savory ground beef and creamy potatoes
- Super quick prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- A budget-friendly meal that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank
- This hearty ground beef and potato casserole is incredibly satisfying
- Kid-approved taste that ensures clean plates every time
- Minimal cleanup with this fantastic one-pan dish
- Comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to be a hit
- A versatile ground beef and potato casserole that pairs well with many sides
Ingredients for Delicious Hamburger Potato Bake
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a truly satisfying meal. This cheesy hamburger potato bake relies on simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create its magic. You’ll need 1 lb ground beef, preferably lean, for a savory base. For the creamy potato element, we’ll use 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly – Russet potatoes work wonderfully here because of their starch content, which helps thicken the sauce. Don’t forget 1 medium onion, chopped, to add a little sweetness and depth. The creamy sauce is made with 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup milk. For that irresistible cheesy topping, grab 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Seasonings are key, so have 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste ready. Finally, 2 tbsp butter will be dotted on top for extra richness.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole
Creating this delicious and hearty meal is easier than you think! Follow these steps for the perfect simple ground beef potato casserole experience.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful presentation.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef until it’s nicely browned. As it cooks, you’ll notice the savory aroma filling your kitchen. Drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Step 3: Add 1 medium onion, chopped, to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 4: Stir in 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup milk, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This is where that creamy, comforting sauce starts to form.
- Step 5: Now it’s time to assemble! Layer half of the 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly, in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Step 6: Spoon half of the savory ground beef and mushroom mixture evenly over the potato layer.
- Step 7: Repeat the layers with the remaining sliced potatoes and the rest of the beef mixture. Ensure the top layer of potatoes is mostly covered by the sauce for even cooking.
- Step 8: Dot the top of the casserole with 2 tbsp butter. This adds a lovely richness and helps the cheese brown beautifully.
- Step 9: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps the steam and ensures the potatoes cook through and become tender. Bake for 45 minutes. Following these hamburger potato casserole instructions carefully will lead to success.
- Step 10: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil. Sprinkle the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 11: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The sight of that bubbly cheese is pure bliss!
- Step 12: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese and sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your fantastic hamburger potato casserole!
Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Potato Casserole
I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it. They help ensure you get that perfect texture and flavor every single time.
- For the creamiest potatoes, use Russet potatoes; their starch content is perfect for this recipe.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking! It allows everything to set up beautifully for easier serving.
- If you want an extra cheesy kick, mix some of the cheddar cheese into the beef mixture before layering.
- Ensure your beef is browned well and the fat is drained; this is crucial for the casserole’s texture.
What’s the secret to perfect hamburger potato casserole?
The secret to a truly perfect hamburger potato casserole lies in the thin, even slicing of the potatoes and ensuring they are well-covered by the creamy sauce for even cooking. Using quality ingredients makes a big difference too. For more tips on achieving perfect results, check out these bread secrets.
Can I make hamburger potato casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, up to the point of adding the cheese, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it well and refrigerate. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the initial baking time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with ground beef potato bake recipe?
A common pitfall is not slicing the potatoes thinly enough, which can lead to undercooked spuds. Also, make sure to drain the grease from the beef thoroughly to avoid a greasy final dish. Overcrowding the pan can also prevent even browning. Learning about baking techniques can help prevent many common errors.
Best Ways to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole
This hearty ground beef potato casserole is so satisfying on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to make a complete meal. For a fresh contrast, I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. Steamed green beans or a simple side of corn on the cob are also fantastic additions that complement the savory flavors. When planning your meals, consider these hamburger potato casserole dinner ideas: a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top can really elevate the dish. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into any family dinner rotation. For more side dish inspiration, explore these apple salad recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Hamburger Potato Casserole
This comforting dish offers a balanced nutritional profile, making it a satisfying main course. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving for this delicious casserole:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used in your preparation of this homemade hamburger potato casserole. For more information on nutritional data, you can consult resources like the USDA’s FoodData Central.
How to Store and Reheat Hamburger Potato Casserole
Once your delicious homemade hamburger potato casserole has cooled slightly, it’s time to think about storing any leftovers. Allowing it to cool for about 20-30 minutes before packing is best. You can store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep this comforting dish for longer, freezing is a great option! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, it’s easy to reheat. For refrigerated leftovers, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Frozen portions can be thawed overnight in the fridge and then reheated as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
What is hamburger potato casserole?
A hamburger potato casserole is a comforting, layered dish that typically features ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a classic American comfort food, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
While Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starch content, you can use Yukon Gold or even red potatoes. Just ensure they are sliced thinly and evenly for consistent cooking. This can affect the final texture slightly, but it will still be delicious! For other potato dishes, check out this potato salad recipe.
How do I make this a one-pan hamburger potato casserole?
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s already a one-pan wonder! You cook the beef and onion in a skillet, then layer everything directly into a baking dish to cook. This minimizes cleanup, which is always a win in my kitchen.
What can I serve with this hamburger potato casserole?
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but I love pairing it with a fresh green salad or some steamed broccoli for a nice contrast. A simple side of applesauce or a dollop of sour cream also complements the flavors perfectly, making it a complete and satisfying meal. You might also enjoy these corn salad with lime recipes.
Variations of Hamburger Potato Casserole You Can Try
Looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs? This versatile dish is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next delicious potato and ground beef bake.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground beef for crumbled firm tofu or a plant-based ground alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a vegetarian version.
- Creamy Chicken Bake: Substitute ground chicken for beef and use cream of chicken soup for a slightly different, yet equally comforting flavor profile.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Layer the ingredients as directed in a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then top with cheese and broil briefly until melted. For more slow cooker ideas, see this sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken.

Guide Hamburger Potato Casserole: 1 Tasty Bake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting one-pan dish featuring savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a melted cheddar cheese topping. It’s a simple and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish.
- Top with half of the beef mixture.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
- Dot the top with butter.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Russet potatoes are recommended for their starch content.
- Lean ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef.
- Cream of chicken soup can replace cream of mushroom soup.
- Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese can be used instead of cheddar.
- The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Hamburger Potato Casserole, ground beef potato casserole, cheesy potato bake, easy casserole recipe, family dinner