Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this casserole for its simple preparation and satisfying flavors. The creamy mushroom soup ties the layers together, while spices add a delicious depth. It’s a one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, delivering tender potatoes and savory beef in every bite.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Cooking spray
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.
- Layer half the sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Add half the beef mixture over the potatoes, then pour half the soup mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, soup, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 20–30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves 6. Prep time: 30 minutes. Cook time: 45 minutes. Total time: 75 minutes.
Variations
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
- Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead of mushroom for different flavor profiles.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crispy crust.
- Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder taste.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
FAQs
How thin should the potato slices be?
Aim for thin, uniform slices—about 1/8 inch—to ensure even cooking.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate it overnight, then bake before serving.
What if my casserole isn’t bubbling after baking?
Bake longer uncovered until cheese melts and the casserole bubbles.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and verify all ingredients.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking and thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
How do I prevent potatoes from drying out?
Covering with foil during baking keeps moisture in.
Can I add herbs to the recipe?
Fresh thyme or rosemary works well with beef and potatoes.
Is this casserole spicy?
No, but you can add chili powder or cayenne for heat.
What’s the best way to slice potatoes quickly?
Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thin slices.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative with similar results.
Conclusion
Hamburger Potato Casserole is a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its tender potatoes, savory beef, and gooey cheese, this classic casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
A hearty casserole with layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection for a comforting family meal.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned and onions are soft. Drain fat. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Layer half the potatoes in dish. Add half the beef mixture, then half the soup mixture evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, soup, and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove foil and bake 20–30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
Use cream of chicken or celery soup for different flavors.
Top with buttery breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
Try sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg