Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

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🍲 Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

📖 Description

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting, and budget-friendly dish that combines layers of ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s baked until golden and bubbly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. This casserole is simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and will satisfy the whole family.

📝 Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 3–4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

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

  • 1 cup milk

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

  2. Cook beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  3. Prepare sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.

  4. Layer casserole:

    • Place half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish.

    • Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.

    • Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef.

    • Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.

    • Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, soup, and cheese.

  5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown.

  6. Serve: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley.

📝 Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

  • Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for different flavors.

  • Add vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition.

  • If you don’t want canned soup, make a quick homemade cream sauce with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.

💡 Tips

  • Slice potatoes evenly and thinly (use a mandoline if available) to ensure they cook properly.

  • Covering with foil prevents cheese from burning and keeps the potatoes moist.

  • If potatoes are still slightly firm after baking, return to the oven covered for another 10–15 minutes.

  • Make ahead: Assemble casserole, cover tightly, refrigerate overnight, then bake the next day.

🍽 Servings

  • Makes 6 servings

📊 Nutritional Info (per serving – approx.)

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 23g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Fat: 23g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 820mg

  • Sugars: 3g

(Values may vary depending on ingredients used)

🌟 Benefits

  • Family-friendly: A filling, comforting dish that appeals to all ages.

  • Budget-friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.

  • Customizable: Easy to adjust with different proteins, cheeses, or veggies.

  • Make-ahead option: Great for meal prep and busy weeknights.

 Q&A

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes! Assemble and freeze before baking. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Q: Can I use raw ground beef instead of cooking it first?
A: It’s best to cook the beef beforehand so it’s fully seasoned and doesn’t release excess grease into the casserole.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cream soup or make a homemade cream sauce with cornstarch instead of flour.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Try layering in spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Q: How do I keep the potatoes from being undercooked?
A: Slice them thin (⅛ inch) and bake covered for at least 1 hour before uncovering.

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