Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

 Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole stands out as a timeless classic. Layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese come together in a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a family gathering, this casserole promises to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a go-to recipe.

Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, creamy flavors are a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Versatile: You can customize it with extra vegetables, different cheeses, or alternative seasonings to suit your preferences.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

1 lb ground beef: Provides a savory, meaty base for the casserole and adds protein to the dish.

4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced: The heart of the casserole, potatoes add structure and soak up the rich flavors. Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal for their creamy texture.

1 small onion, chopped: Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle sweetness and depth.

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The ultimate comfort ingredient, cheddar adds creaminess, flavor, and that irresistible gooey topping.

1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz): Acts as the binding element, creating a creamy sauce that melds the flavors together.

1/2 cup milk: Thins out the soup for easy pouring and ensures the potatoes cook evenly in the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes (approximately 1/8-inch thick). Uniform slices are crucial for even cooking.

4. Assemble the Layers

In the prepared baking dish:

Spread a layer of potatoes evenly across the bottom.

Sprinkle a portion of chopped onions over the potatoes.

Add a layer of cooked ground beef.

Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.

5. Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the casserole.

6. Top with Cheese

Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer of potatoes.

7. Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This makes slicing and serving easier.

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Why This Recipe Is a Crowd Favorite

This casserole combines classic, comforting flavors with a satisfying texture. The cheesy topping provides a perfect contrast to the tender layers of potatoes and beef, while the creamy sauce ensures every bite is rich and flavorful. It’s the type of dish that brings everyone back for seconds.

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Pro Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes create a creamy texture, while Yukon Golds are slightly firmer. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which may not soften as well.

Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices to ensure they cook evenly.

Add Veggies: Sneak in some peas, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrients and color.

Spice It Up: Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning to the beef for a flavor boost.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole with a crisp green salad and a side of buttery dinner rolls for a complete meal. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus complements the creamy casserole beautifully.

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Final Thoughts

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is everything you want in a dinner—simple to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and universally loved. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this casserole guarantees smiles all around. Give this recipe a try, and it just might become y

our new favorite comfort food.

Save this recipe and share it with friends—it’s too good to keep to yourself!