Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting, hearty dish that's easy to make and full of flavor, then this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe is perfect for you. Packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and lots of gooey melted cheese, this casserole will satisfy your cravings and leave your family asking for seconds! Read on for a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious, budget-friendly meal and get all the tips and tricks to make it even better.

What is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic American dish that combines ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and other flavorful ingredients to create a filling, one-dish meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, as it can be prepared ahead of time and baked when you're ready. The layers of beef, potatoes, and cheese meld together to create a rich and comforting casserole that’s easy to serve and customize.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – Use lean ground beef to reduce grease, or go for ground turkey as a healthier alternative.
• 6 medium potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their texture.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds flavor to the beef layer.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a rich, savory depth to the dish.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – This acts as a binding agent and adds creaminess to the casserole.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of cheddar soup – Enhances the cheesy flavor of the dish.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and tang to balance the flavors.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheesy taste.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To season the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little kick.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a slight smoky flavor and color.
• ¼ cup milk – Helps to loosen the soup mixture.
• 2 tablespoon butter – Optional, for extra richness.
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds a touch of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit your dietary needs or preferences. Here are a few substitution ideas:

• Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter version.
• Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer.
• For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cheese and non-dairy sour cream.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the casserole to increase the nutritional content.
• Want to make it a little spicier? Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.

Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Peel and slice your potatoes into thin rounds (about ¼-inch thick). Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and shred your cheddar cheese if it's not pre-shredded.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it starts to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Begin by spreading a thin layer of the creamy sauce mixture on the bottom of the dish. Add a single layer of sliced potatoes on top, followed by half of the cooked ground beef. Pour another layer of the creamy sauce over the beef, and sprinkle a handful of cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and cheese, finishing with a generous topping of shredded cheddar.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to turn golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut into neat portions. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

How to Cook Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare all ingredients (slice potatoes, dice onions, etc.).
2. Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic until fully cooked and drain excess fat.
3. Mix the soups, sour cream, and milk into a creamy sauce.
4. Layer the casserole with potatoes, ground beef, sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake covered for 60-70 minutes, removing the cover during the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
6. Let the casserole rest before serving.

This easy-to-follow process guarantees a delicious, cheesy meal every time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the Potatoes: Make sure the potato slices are not too thick, as they may not cook through in the allotted time. Slice them about ¼-inch thick for the best results.
• Skipping the Drain: Always drain the excess grease from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Not Covering the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil during the first hour of baking to ensure the potatoes cook evenly and prevent the top from burning.
• Not Letting it Rest: Giving the casserole time to rest before cutting allows it to firm up and makes serving easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole. You can also serve it with dinner rolls or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

For a polished presentation, garnish the top of the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for an even cheesier finish. Serve the casserole in neat squares or slices on individual plates to give it a clean, appetizing look.

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just follow the same cooking instructions.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely. You can use plant-based ground meat or swap the beef for vegetables like mushrooms and spinach. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen hashbrowns or diced potatoes as a time-saving alternative. Thaw them first and layer them as you would the sliced potatoes.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

To lighten up the recipe, use lean ground beef or turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium soups. You can also add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its layers of savory beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese. It's easy to make, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try, and don't forget to experiment with variations to make it your own!

Enjoy your delicious casserole and happy cooking!

Print