Ultimate Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Cozy Classic

 

Ultimate Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Cozy Classic

When you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and sure to please, this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is just the ticket. Featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce, this dish delivers classic comfort food flavor with minimal fuss.

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole hits the spot every time. Best of all, it uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef – Lean or extra-lean helps avoid excess grease.

4–5 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold are best; peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick).

1 small onion, finely diced

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Or use cream of chicken or celery for variety.

1/2 cup milk – Thins out the soup for a smoother sauce.

1–2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Adjust to taste; sharp cheddar adds great flavor.

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional spices: garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, or parsley

Instructions

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes thinly. Consistent thickness is key—use a mandoline slicer if available.

Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add onions and cook until softened (2–3 minutes). Drain excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix the soup and milk until smooth. This creamy blend keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.

Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Layer half the sliced potatoes on the bottom.

Top with half the beef mixture and half the soup mixture.

Repeat layers.

Finish with shredded cheese spread evenly over the top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Then uncover and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and potatoes are fork-tender.

Cool & Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped chives, or green onions if desired.

Extra Tips for Success

Use a Mandoline: It makes potato slicing quicker and more uniform for even cooking.

Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or shredded carrots.

Experiment with Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a new flavor twist.

Healthier Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken, low-sodium soup, and low-fat cheese to make it lighter.

Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips

Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking.

Freezing: Freeze fully cooked casserole in portions or whole. Wrap well with foil or freezer wrap and store up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love It

✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients.

✅ Easy to Prepare: Great for beginner cooks or busy nights.

✅ Kid-Approved: Simple, cheesy, and satisfying.

✅ Customizable: Adapt it to your family’s taste preferences or dietary needs.

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is more than just a dinner—it’s a cozy, feel-good dish that brings people together. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a potluck favorite, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home.