Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

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If you’re craving something warm, filling, and irresistibly cheesy, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort dish. It combines layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy cheese sauce baked together to golden perfection. Every bite is rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying — the kind of meal that reminds you of home-cooked dinners around the family table. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)

  • 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)

  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning

Optional Toppings:

  • Crumbled bacon

  • Chopped green onions

  • A sprinkle of paprika for color

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes soft and fragrant — about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the mixture aside.

This flavorful beef layer forms the heart of the casserole, infusing every bite with a savory richness that perfectly complements the tender potatoes.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and butter. Stir over medium heat until smooth and warm. Remove from the heat and add 1½ cups of shredded cheddar and ½ cup mozzarella. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce turns silky. Season lightly with black pepper and dried parsley.

This sauce is what ties the entire casserole together — creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Now, begin layering:

  1. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them like shingles.

  2. Spoon half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.

  3. Pour a third of the cheese sauce evenly over the top.

  4. Repeat the layers — potatoes, beef, and cheese sauce — until everything is used up.

  5. Finish with a final layer of potatoes and the remaining sauce on top.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the surface for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender.

If you like a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly and makes it easier to cut into neat portions.

Garnish with chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or a light sprinkle of paprika for color. Pair it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

  1. Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly. This ensures they cook uniformly and achieve that perfect tender texture.

  2. Choose the Right Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella provides both flavor and meltiness, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyère for a different twist.

  3. Pre-Cook Potatoes (Optional): If you’re short on time or worried about undercooked potatoes, you can parboil them for 5 minutes before layering.

  4. Add Veggies: For extra nutrition and flavor, layer in thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach between the potatoes and beef.

  5. Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve — just add 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food — rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The layers of tender potatoes soak up the savory beef juices and cheesy sauce, creating a perfect balance of texture and taste. It’s an affordable dish that stretches simple ingredients into a full family meal, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or lazy Sunday dinners.

Every spoonful delivers that cozy homemade flavor that reminds you of a meal lovingly prepared in a warm kitchen. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or enjoy the leftovers the next day (they reheat beautifully), it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.

If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes capture the essence of hearty home cooking like this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. With its layers of savory beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly baked potatoes, it’s a dish that satisfies both appetite and soul. Serve it at family dinners, bring it to potlucks, or keep it as a cozy weekend indulgence — either way, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every single time.

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