There’s something magic about the smell of browning beef and melty cheese that hits differentlike Sunday at Grandma’s or a potluck where someone brought their “famous” casserole. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is popping up everywhere lately, from Pinterest boards to family text threads. And yeah, it’s worth the hype.
This warm, comforting bake layers thin sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and creamy cheddar soup into one hearty dinner. It’s simple, pantry-friendly, and tastes like a hug in a dish. If you’re into Hamburger Potato Bake with Cheddar Soup-type meals, this one’s your new go-to. Full details in the blog!
When I made this for my sister’s visit last month, her kids licked the platesliterally. I’ve tested versions with frozen potatoes, fresh herbs, shortcuts, you name it. This is the one that works every dang time. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
Enjoy a comforting Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole that’s rich and creamy with layers of savory beef and cheese. This Hamburger Potato Bake with Cheddar Soup makes mealtime easy and satisfying. Perfect for a Ground Beef Potato Casserole Creamy and hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ lbs ground beef or ground turkey
1 medium onion chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
5 –6 medium russet potatoes thinly sliced about 1/8 inch
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella optional for extra meltiness
1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken
1 cup milk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika optional
1 tbsp olive oil or butter for greasing the dish
Instructions
Set your oven to preheat at 350°F 175°C and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the meat is browned and no longer pink, then drain off any fat.
Mix in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the cooked beef.
Combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk in a bowl, stirring until the sauce is smooth.
Start layering half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the baking dish, then spread half of the beef mixture over them.
Pour half of the prepared sauce evenly over the beef, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and finally top with the rest of the cheddar cheese and mozzarella if using.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving, great alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes
For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Category:Main Course
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Why It’s a Family Favorite
Every family cherishes that one dish everyone can agree on, and this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is precisely that. It layers all the good stuffpotatoes, beef, cheese, and a creamy, dreamy saucein a single baking dish. It’s both nostalgic and practical, reminding you of those meals where someone always called dibs on the crispy corner piece.
What truly makes this dish special is its versatility and forgiving nature. It uses everyday pantry ingredients and comes together with minimal effort, which is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or lazy Sundays. Plus, there’s something so comforting about a casserolethe bubbling edges, that cheesy stretch when you lift your fork. It tastes like home!
If you’re searching for the ultimate ground beef potato comfort food to please a crowd (or simply yourself), this recipe is the answer. So grab your favorite casserole dish, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients Breakdown
Before we dive into layering, let’s take a closer look at what makes this cozy dish so delicious. All the components work together to create a hearty, creamy, and cheesy dinner you’ll crave again and again.
Ground Beef: The base of the dish, seasoned to perfection with onion, garlic, salt, and a touch of paprika for extra warmth.
Russet Potatoes: Thinly sliced and starchy enough to hold their shape while absorbing the flavors as they bake. You want these cut to about 1/8 inch for even cooking.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: A mix of sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for a gooey, melty finish. You can skip the mozzarella if you prefer, but I say go all in!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: The shortcut ingredient for creamy, savory layers. If you’re not a fan, cream of chicken works beautifully too.
Milk: This thins out the soup, creating a pourable sauce that coats everything perfectly.
Pro Tip: Want an even creamier sauce? Swap some of the milk for heavy cream. It’s indulgent but oh-so-good!
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to assemble your comforting masterpiece? It’s so easy, you’ll feel like a casserole pro in no time. Here’s how to create it, step by step:
Prep your dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent any sticking. Nobody wants to scrape baked-on cheese from the corners!
Cook the beef mix: Brown your ground beef with the chopped onion until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika, setting the mixture aside. Your kitchen will already smell incredible!
Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth and well combined. This creamy sauce will beautifully soak into the potatoes as the casserole bakes.
Layer it up: Begin by arranging half the thinly sliced potatoes, overlapping them slightly, in the prepared baking dish. Next, add half of the beef mixture, pour half of the soup mixture over the top, and sprinkle with a cup of cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the mozzarella on top for that extra gooey finish.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before servingthe wait will be worth it, I promise!
Quick Cooking Time Table
Step
Time
Prep ingredients
20 minutes
Bake covered
45 minutes
Bake uncovered
15–20 minutes
Total time
1 hour 20 minutes
Easy Customizations
This versatile casserole serves as an excellent canvas for incorporating your favorite flavors or utilizing ingredients you already have on hand. Here are a few ideas to shake things up and make it uniquely yours:
Protein: Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives to beef. You could also try crumbled sausage for a different flavor twist.
Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to sneak in those greens. Just be sure to cook them down first to avoid extra water in the dish.
Cheese: Love a smoky flavor? Use smoked gouda or a sprinkle of parmesan for depth. Or go spicy with a touch of pepper jack.
Once this cheesy wonder emerges from the oven, all that’s left is to eagerly dig in! It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crusty bread perfect for scooping up the rich, creamy sauce. While hearty enough to stand alone, these suggested sides make it feel extra special.
Leftovers? You’re in luck! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or simply microwave individual portions for a convenient lunch or dinner.
Storage Method
How Long It Keeps
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days
Freezer (uncooked)
Up to 1 month
Freezer (cooked)
Up to 2 months
Pro Tip: Freeze individual servings for easy, comforting lunches. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Says
The CHEESY HAMBURGER POTATO CASSEROLE combines protein and starch in one dish, providing sustained energy and satiety. Using cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes calcium and fat, which enhance the dish’s texture and mouthfeel by promoting creaminess and moisture retention during baking.
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The Story Behind This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Crafting this cheesy hamburger potato casserole to perfection involved a handful of kitchen experiments (and, yes, a few too-mushy potatoes!). Through those trials, I finally struck the ideal balance between tender potatoes, savory beef, and perfectly melted cheese, resulting in a consistently comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
FAQs ( Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole )
Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for prepping in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge to ensure it heats evenly.
What tips ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Slice potatoes thin and uniform for even cooking and a tender texture. Layer them evenly without overcrowding, and covering the casserole while baking helps steam the potatoes through. You can flank-bake it by checking doneness with a fork around 45 minutes.
Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
It’s best to fully thaw frozen ground beef before cooking to ensure even browning and safety. Cook the beef thoroughly, draining excess fat before combining with other ingredients. This helps keep the casserole from becoming greasy and maintains the intended texture.
Can I substitute cheddar soup in the Hamburger Potato Bake with Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as a substitute, but cheddar soup adds a uniquely rich, cheesy flavor. Alternatively, make a homemade cheese sauce to keep the creamy texture while adjusting flavors. Avoid watery soups to prevent a soggy casserole.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep and leftovers?
This casserole is ideal for meal prep since it reheats well and flavors deepen over time. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave to preserve creaminess and topping texture.
Conclusion
After baking for about an hour, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole emerges from the oven bubbling, golden, and emitting an aroma like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The carefully layered combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and perfectly melted cheese ensures every bite delivers pure comfort. You’ll adore how it turns outrich, creamy, and with just the right amount of cheesy goodness, all without any fuss.
For a little twist, try swapping ground beef for turkey or adding sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. If you’re short on time, frozen hash browns work as a quick shortcut that still delivers all the cozy flavors. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwavea tip I picked up from my aunt who swore by doubling casseroles for “later emergencies.”
I’d love to see your delicious creation! Did this comforting dish bring back memories of a family favorite, or perhaps spark a new tradition in your home? Feel free to snap a pic, share your thoughts, or simply save this recipe for those nights when ultimate comfort is a must. Here’s to more good food and even better memories shared around your table!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
