If you are craving a warm, comforting dish that combines hearty flavors with cheesy goodness, you have found your new favorite. This Easy Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is a timeless classic that brings together tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and a luscious cheese topping, all baked to bubbling perfection. Every bite offers a fantastic blend of textures and tastes that will satisfy your appetite and quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in its straightforward yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty base essential for hearty casseroles.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth that complements the beef.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a hint of robust garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and warmth to the savory elements.
- 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced: These tender, starchy potatoes soak up the creamy sauce for luscious layers.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Acts as a rich, creamy binder that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the soup mixture and makes the casserole tender and silky.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Browned on top, it forms that irresistible cheesy crust that makes this casserole a winner.
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing: Keeps the casserole from sticking and adds a perfect buttery undertone.
How to Make Easy Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to ensure your casserole bakes evenly and releases effortlessly once cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
In a skillet set over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the finely chopped onion. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Be sure to drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy. Then, fold in your garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
While the beef is cooking, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This sauce will infuse moisture into the casserole and tie all the ingredients together with wonderful richness.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Now for the fun part—layering. Begin by arranging half of the thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spread half of your seasoned ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the soup mixture evenly over the meat, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup, and cheese to build a perfectly stacked casserole.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Once the potatoes are tender, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes to allow the cheese to turn golden and irresistibly bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and the slices to firm up.
How to Serve Easy Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh contrast, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley atop your casserole right before serving. A dollop of sour cream also pairs beautifully, adding a cool creaminess that balances the rich, savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This Easy Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe stands impressively on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even a tangy coleslaw to lighten the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personal touch. You can also try adding a sprinkling of crispy bacon or a few dashes of hot sauce for an exciting flavor twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making reheated casserole just as delicious—if not better—than fresh.
Freezing
This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months for quick meals that need minimum prep but maximum comfort.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or heat the whole dish covered at 350°F until heated through, usually about 20-30 minutes. To bring back that fresh-baked crispiness, remove the cover during the last 10 minutes of reheating.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! Cream of chicken or cream of celery soups make great alternatives that keep the casserole creamy while offering a slightly different flavor profile to suit your taste.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. You’ll still enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness with a vegetarian twist.
What cheese works best for this casserole?
Sharp cheddar is ideal due to its rich flavor and excellent melting qualities. However, mixtures of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can add exciting flavors and textures.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Consider layering in diced bell peppers, corn, or peas for added color and nutrition. Just be mindful of moisture content, as too much can affect the casserole’s texture.
How thick should I slice the potatoes?
Thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick, allow the potatoes to cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce nicely. Thicker slices may require longer baking times and might not meld as seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe is truly one of those comfort dishes that delivers warmth, bold flavors, and that wonderful homemade feeling you want to share with loved ones. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole is straightforward, satisfying, and downright delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your own kitchen!
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Easy Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Easy Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole is a comforting, hearty American dish perfect for family dinners. It layers seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced russet potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and plenty of cheddar cheese, all baked to golden bubbly perfection. The casserole is easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and delivers a savory blend of flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Potato Layers
- 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
Soup Mixture
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
Other
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking and help with browning.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to season the mixture thoroughly.
- Mix the soup and milk: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy layer for the casserole.
- Layer the casserole – first half: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Then pour half of the soup mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to finish the first layered section.
- Layer the casserole – second half: Repeat the layering process using the remaining potatoes, ground beef mixture, soup mixture, and finish with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese spread evenly on top.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This step lets the top layer of cheese turn golden and bubbly, and ensures the potatoes are tender.
- Rest and serve: Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve while keeping it hot and delicious.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute cream of chicken or celery soup instead of mushroom soup for a different flavor base.
- This casserole reheats well and can be frozen for convenient future meals.
