Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

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When you need comfort food that hits all the right notes—hearty, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying—this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is your answer. It’s the perfect dish for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese that bubbles beautifully in the oven. With minimal prep and a crowd-pleasing result, it’s a must-try recipe that brings back that nostalgic homemade flavor.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a new meal prep idea, this casserole adapts to your needs. You can prep it ahead, freeze it, and reheat it with ease. Plus, it uses affordable pantry staples you probably already have. It’s not just dinner; it’s dinner made simple, satisfying, and totally delicious.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For best results, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes. They hold their shape during baking and give you a soft yet structured bite. If you prefer a fluffier texture, russet potatoes will also work, but they may break down a bit more and soak up extra moisture.

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Ingredients for the Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ground Beef: The flavorful, protein-packed base of the dish. You can use lean ground beef or even substitute it with ground turkey.

Potatoes: These are the heart of the casserole, giving it substance and a satisfying bite.

Onion: Adds depth and sweetness as it cooks with the beef.

Garlic: A few cloves elevate the flavor of the beef mixture without overpowering it.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: This brings creaminess and binds the beef and potatoes together.

Cheddar Cheese: A generous layer on top that melts into a golden, gooey blanket.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the beef and potatoes to taste.

Paprika (optional): Adds a mild heat and a smoky aroma.

Milk: Helps smooth out the soup and distribute it evenly across the layers.

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How To Make the Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, wash and peel your potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds. Dice your onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika if using.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth. This will serve as the creamy binder between the layers.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with a layer of potato slices, then spread a layer of the cooked beef mixture over it. Pour a portion of the soup mixture on top. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of potatoes.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Bake

Bake covered for 1 hour. Then, remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

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Serving and Storing This Casserole

Serve this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a slice of crusty bread to scoop up every last bite. The hearty layers make it a stand-alone meal, ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

For leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different kind of soup?

Absolutely. Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup both work as tasty alternatives to cream of mushroom.

What cheeses work well besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack, Colby, or a shredded cheese blend with mozzarella can add a fun twist to the topping.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils, and ensure your soup choice is vegetarian.

How do I avoid watery casserole?

Make sure to drain the cooked ground beef well, and don’t use too much milk. A thicker soup mix helps everything stay nicely layered.

Can I cook it in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer the ingredients as directed and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese in the last 30 minutes.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting and flavor-packed dishes:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a creamy, cheesy twist on a French classic.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole when you want a budget-friendly baked pasta dinner.
• Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole for a kid-friendly, pepperoni-packed meal.
• Mexican Cornbread Casserole if you’re craving bold flavors and spice.
• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for cozy, holiday-inspired goodness any night of the week.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime you need a simple, hearty meal.

And when you try it, drop a comment below to let me know how it turned out. Did you add extra spices? Try a different cheese? Swap in sweet potatoes? I’d love to hear your version!

Questions, suggestions, or creative spins are always welcome. Let’s make dinner better together.

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