Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
This easy and comforting Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic weeknight favorite, combining savory ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- 9x13-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef lean mix recommended
- 4 medium potatoes thinly sliced, Russets or Yukon Golds
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, sharp or mild
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat.
- Step 3: Add the diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the onion softens slightly.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the thinly sliced potatoes. Add the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is coated.
- Step 5: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Step 6: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 7: Carefully remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and irresistible.
- Step 8: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set up slightly.
Notes
Substitutions & Additions:
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage crumbles. Use cream of chicken or celery soup instead of mushroom. Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses. Stir in frozen peas, corn, or green beans. Add red pepper flakes for heat. For extra texture, add crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or French fried onions on top before the final bake.
Tips for Success:
Slice potatoes thinly and evenly (about 1/8 inch). Season the beef mixture well. Resting after baking helps the casserole hold its shape. To prep ahead, brown beef, slice onions/potatoes the day before and store separately; combine when ready to bake.
How to Store It:
Cool leftovers completely. Store covered in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or a larger portion covered in the oven at 325°F (160°C). Can freeze baked leftovers for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.