Hamburger Potato Casserole – Ultimate Easy Dinner in 9 Steps

Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate weeknight hero, especially when the fridge is low and the kids are hangry. Layers of crispy potatoes, juicy beef, and melty cheddar all wrapped up in a cozy, oven-baked hug? Yes, please! If you’re juggling a busy schedule, picky eaters, or just want something hearty without standing at the stove all night—this casserole brings serious comfort with minimal effort. Whether it’s your first time or you’re adding it to your dinner rotation, hamburger potato casserole will make you feel like a dinner genius (with leftovers to spare).

Table of Contents

What is Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Hamburger potato casserole is an old-school, Midwest-style comfort dish that’s stood the test of time—and for good reason. It’s like a cheesy, beefy lasagna but with thinly sliced potatoes instead of pasta. Ground beef is browned and layered with sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s warm, filling, and feels like a big cozy blanket on a plate. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just need something that sticks to your ribs (and keeps the hangry crowd happy).

Reasons to Try Hamburger Potato Casserole

Let’s be honest, some nights call for a dish that just gets you. Hamburger potato casserole is budget-friendly, easy to throw together, and hits that savory sweet spot that screams “home-cooked.” Even better? It’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t demand much—no fancy tools, no culinary school skills. Plus, it’s flexible. Want to toss in some chopped mushrooms or swap the beef for turkey? Go for it. It’s the kind of recipe that forgives your pantry’s chaos and still comes out tasting like a win.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

If there’s one thing to love about hamburger potato casserole, it’s that the ingredients are down-to-earth, easy to find, and probably already hanging out in your pantry or fridge. No mystery items, no extra grocery runs—just wholesome, comforting staples layered together to make something magical. Here’s a deeper dive into what makes this dish so irresistible:

• 1 pound ground beef
  Go for 80/20 if you want that juicy, full flavor—it’s the heart of this casserole. Browning the beef properly adds a savory richness that anchors every layer. If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, try ground turkey instead. We’ve also used beef in other comfort classics like our Creamy Beef Goulash, and the results are always satisfying.
• 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  These are the unsung heroes of hamburger potato casserole. Russets are ideal because their high starch content helps them become tender and creamy as they bake. Slice them thin so they cook evenly—this also helps them soak up all the goodness from the soup and meat.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
  Adds that subtle sweetness and bite that balances out the richness of the beef and cheese. You can sauté it with the beef if you want it mellow, or layer it raw for a bit of sharpness.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  Go bold or go home. Sharp cheddar is the classic pick here—it melts beautifully and gives that cheesy blanket on top a little tang. Want it extra melty and gooey? Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
  This is where the magic sauce comes from. It adds that creamy, savory depth that pulls the whole dish together. Not a mushroom fan? You can swap in cream of chicken or celery, but the mushroom version gives hamburger potato casserole its classic flavor.
• ½ cup whole milk
  Helps thin the soup just enough to coat the potatoes and beef without making it watery. If you prefer something lighter, 2% milk will work, but whole milk keeps the texture silky and rich.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  Used to brown the beef—it’s a little touch, but it makes a big difference. You could also use butter if you’re feeling indulgent.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Adds warmth and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. You can also toss in a pinch of smoked paprika or dried thyme if you’re feeling fancy.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  Don’t underestimate this duo. Season each layer lightly as you go—it really helps bring out the best in the potatoes and beef.

Pantry Tip:

If you’ve got picky eaters or just want to stretch the casserole a little more, try tossing in some frozen peas, corn, or even a handful of chopped mushrooms. This dish plays well with others.

Instructions to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ready to get cozy in the kitchen? Let’s break down exactly how to make this hamburger potato casserole step-by-step. The process is simple and satisfying—even if it’s your first time making a casserole, you’ve got this. From the perfectly browned beef to the bubbling cheesy top, each layer builds on the last to create a rich, crave-worthy dish your whole crew will devour.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your oven enough time to reach the right temperature while you’re getting everything else together.
Next, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a thin layer of olive oil. This helps keep your cheesy, creamy layers from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later. Trust me—scraping baked cheese off a dish is no one’s idea of fun.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add 1 pound of ground beef and break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon.
Cook until the beef is fully browned—this takes about 7–9 minutes. If you want to get fancy, toss in the chopped onion halfway through cooking so it gets soft and fragrant.
Once cooked, drain off the excess grease (super important so your casserole doesn’t get greasy). Set the beef aside—it’s about to become the star of the show.

Pro Tip: Want a twist on the classic? Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Or go bold with seasoned sausage for extra flavor, like we do in our Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef.

Step 3: Slice the Potatoes Thin

Grab those 4 medium russet potatoes and slice them thinly and evenly—think about the thickness of a coin. This helps them cook faster and soak up all the creamy goodness.
If you have a mandoline slicer, now’s the time to use it. Otherwise, a sharp knife and steady hand will do just fine.

Layer the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. You want full coverage, but not overlapping too thick—this is where the base of your hamburger potato casserole gets its comforting, creamy texture.

Sprinkle the potato layer with kosher salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder to season right from the start.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of mushroom soup with ½ cup of whole milk. Whisk or stir until it’s smooth and pourable.
This combo becomes the secret sauce that brings the layers together and turns your casserole into a rich, creamy dream.

Not a fan of mushrooms? You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery instead—either way, the result is delicious.

Pour this mixture evenly over the potato layer, making sure it seeps into all those little nooks and crannies. Don’t worry if it looks a little thin—it thickens up beautifully while baking.

Step 5: Layer on the Beef and Onions

Spoon your browned ground beef across the casserole in an even layer. Sprinkle the chopped onion on top of the beef.
This gives every bite that sweet-savory kick and balances the creamy richness from the soup and potatoes.
By now, your dish is already looking layered and luscious.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Now for the best part: cheddar cheese. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar over the entire top.
It’ll melt into a golden crust and lock in all the juicy, meaty flavor underneath. Want to go full comfort food mode? Add a little extra cheese—we won’t tell.

Step 7: Cover and Bake

Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps in the steam and helps the potatoes cook evenly without drying out.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 8: Uncover and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil—watch out for steam! Then, continue baking uncovered for another 15 minutes.
This gives the cheese time to get golden and bubbly, and the potatoes should be fork-tender by the time the timer dings.

Optional but delicious: Pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end to get a slightly crispy, browned top.

Step 9: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let the casserole rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything settle and makes slicing much easier (and less molten).
Grab your favorite serving spoon, plate it up, and enjoy the layered flavors of your homemade hamburger potato casserole!

What to Serve with Hamburger Potato Casserole

This dish is the main event, but a few easy sides can turn it into a full-on dinner party (even if it’s just Tuesday). Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance out the richness. A buttery slice of garlic bread or even a biscuit? Pure comfort food heaven. Want dessert? Try these no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bars for a sweet ending that’s as easy as the main course.

Key Tips for Making Hamburger Potato Casserole

1. Thin Potatoes = Even Cooking: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to get those perfect thin slices. Nobody wants half-raw spuds.
2. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: It melts better than pre-bagged cheese, which often has anti-caking agents.
3. Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Layered seasoning makes this dish sing. Salt the potatoes before you add anything else.
4. Go Veggie? Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach all work great.
5. Broil for a Golden Top: Want that Instagram-worthy crust? Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Hamburger Potato Casserole

Leftovers? Jackpot. Let the casserole cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or pop individual portions into the microwave for 2–3 minutes. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk before reheating to bring back the creaminess. You can even freeze it—wrap it well and it’ll last up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! It’s a great lean option and still tastes delicious.

Q: What kind of potatoes work best?
Russets are perfect here—they’re starchy and cook down beautifully.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Just add 10 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
You can sub the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
Totally—just use two baking dishes or a larger pan. Keep an eye on the cook time.

Final Thoughts

Hamburger potato casserole is one of those reliable, down-to-earth dishes that’s hard not to love. It’s hearty, affordable, and full of flavors that feel nostalgic and comforting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or just craving something homey, this casserole shows up and delivers—every single time. Hungry for more cozy dinners? Check out our other ground beef favorites like Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef or Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef.

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