Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to hearty, budget-friendly comfort food, the Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole reigns supreme. Packed with layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect all-in-one dish for busy weeknights. 🍔🥔
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Minimal prep with pantry-friendly ingredients
- ✅ Crowd-pleasing flavors for kids and adults alike
- ✅ Affordable and filling
- ✅ Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt & pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.
- Layer the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the potatoes, half the beef mixture, half the sauce, and half the cheese. Repeat layers.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Chef Tips from the Pros
Chef Bobby Flay: “Season each layer lightly for even flavor distribution.”
Ree Drummond: “Swap in cream of chicken or celery soup for a flavor change.”
Gordon Ramsay: “Don’t overcook the beef before baking — it will finish cooking in the oven.”
Ina Garten: “Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture that holds up well in baking.”
Health & Safety Considerations
- Ensure beef is cooked to at least 160°F for safety.
- For a lower-sodium option, use reduced-salt soup and cheese.
- Swap dairy cheese for vegan alternatives if needed.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition & Health Benefits Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (85% lean) | 1 lb | 960 | 84 | 0 | 64 |
| Potatoes | 4-5 medium | 520 | 12 | 120 | 0 |
| Onion | 1 small | 45 | 1 | 11 | 0 |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups | 800 | 48 | 0 | 64 |
| Cream of Mushroom Soup | 1 can | 220 | 4 | 16 | 16 |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 60 | 4 | 6 | 2 |
| Total (per casserole) | – | 2,605 | 153 | 153 | 146 |
FAQs About Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Can I make this ahead? Yes — assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I freeze it? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Absolutely, though it will change the flavor profile.
- How do I prevent watery casserole? Drain beef well and use starchy potatoes.
- Can I add veggies? Yes — peas, corn, or bell peppers work well.
- Can I use ground turkey instead? Yes, for a leaner option.
- What cheese works best? Cheddar, Colby Jack, or a mix of both.
- How do I get crispy cheese on top? Remove foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, just use a larger baking dish.
- Is it gluten-free? Use gluten-free cream soup and check your cheese labels.
Related Comfort Food Recipes
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate in weeknight comfort food — simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy. Serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal your family will request again and again. 🥘❤️
