This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that combines juicy hamburger meat, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes all baked together. It’s comfort food at its best!
Whenever I make this, my family gathers around the table, and I can’t blame them! Who can resist gooey cheese and beef? Just wait for the delicious smells to fill the house—it’s pure magic! 🧀🍽️
I love how easy this casserole is to whip up. Just layer the ingredients and pop it in the oven! It makes for great leftovers too—if there’s any left by the next day, that is! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This casserole shines with ground beef as the base. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. They have a lighter flavor but still pair nicely with the cheese and potatoes.
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their starchy texture, perfect for layering. If you prefer, you can swap them with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Onion and Garlic: Diced onion adds flavor, while minced garlic gives it a lovely aroma. If you’re sensitive to onions, consider shallots, or even omit them altogether. Garlic powder can substitute minced garlic, but fresh is always best.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar really brings the flavor! However, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella for a milder taste. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese alternatives; just check they melt well.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a key ingredient for creaminess. If you want a homemade option, make a simple white sauce and add sautéed mushrooms. For a dairy-free version, look for coconut cream-based soups.
What’s the Best Way to Layer This Casserole?
Layering is crucial for a casserole to ensure all flavors meld together. Here’s the best approach for perfect layers:
- Start with a greased baking dish to prevent sticking. This dish will be your best friend!
- Place half the sliced potatoes at the bottom, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste for flavor. Make sure they are evenly spread.
- Next, add half of the cooked ground beef mixture, then half of your cream of mushroom soup mix, followed by half of your cheddar cheese.
- Repeat these layers, finishing with cheese on top for that gooey, bubbly finish.
It’s all about even distribution so every bite is delicious. Don’t rush and enjoy the process! Covering with foil prevents the cheese from burning, so be patient during baking.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to bake. So set aside a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes to make, bake, and enjoy this hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to go in!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté those wonderful ingredients together until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The smell will be amazing!
3. Cook the Meat:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, making sure to break it apart with a spoon. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. If there’s any extra fat, don’t forget to drain it!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended
5. Layer the Casserole:
Now it’s time to build your casserole! Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by layering half of your sliced potatoes on the bottom. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, then spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. After that, pour half of the soup mixture on top, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
6. Add More Layers:
Repeat the layers with the remaining sliced potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and finish off with the remaining cheese on top. It’s going to look so good!
7. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. This will help the potatoes cook through nicely.
8. Uncover and Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake it uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step will make the cheese all bubbly and delicious, and ensure the potatoes are tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole cool slightly. If you like, you can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Slice it up, serve warm, and dig in! Enjoy your hearty Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose, as leaner meats may need less cooking time.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can make your own by combining 1 cup of milk with a tablespoon of flour and some sautéed mushrooms, or you can use any cream soup like cream of chicken or even a creamy cheese soup for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it’s too dry, add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
