Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

 Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Why You'll Love This Recipe

When it comes to hearty, satisfying comfort food, nothing beats a Hamburger Potato Casserole. This dish layers savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy mushroom sauce, topped with melty cheddar cheese for the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make, requires minimal prep, and bakes into a bubbling, golden delight that’s guaranteed to please the whole family.

Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for a make-ahead meal, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an excellent go-to recipe for busy evenings.

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Ingredients and Their Role

1 lb ground beef – The star protein that provides rich, savory flavor and heartiness. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.

4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced – The base layer of this casserole, adding comforting starch and texture. Russet potatoes work best due to their fluffy interior and ability to absorb flavors.

1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the beef, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection, bringing richness and sharp flavor.

1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz) – Provides a creamy, savory sauce that ties all the ingredients together.

1/2 cup milk – Helps thin the soup for better distribution, creating a smooth, pourable sauce.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

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

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Slice the Potatoes

Thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick) for even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform slices, which bake evenly and soften perfectly.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This mixture creates a velvety, flavorful binder for the casserole layers.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer half the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the greased baking dish.

2. Spread half the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes.

3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

4. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and 1 more cup of cheese.

5. Pour the soup and milk mixture evenly over the top, letting it seep into the layers.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60–70 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes to create a golden, bubbly top.

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Why This Recipe is a Winner

Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

One-Pan Meal: Easy prep and cleanup.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Simple staples you probably already have in your pantry.

Customizable: Add vegetables or spices for extra flavor.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Uniform Potato Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness, ensuring even cooking.

Cheese Varieties: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.

Extra Creaminess: Stir 1/4 cup sour cream into the soup mixture for a richer sauce.

Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or French-fried onions during the last 10 minutes for added crunch.

Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this Hamburger Potato Casserole with:

Steamed Green Beans – A light, crisp side dish to balance the richness.

Garden Salad – Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette for freshness.

Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up every creamy bite.

Pickles or Coleslaw – Adds a tangy crunch to complement the casserole’s flavors.

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Final Thoughts: Simple, Delicious, and Comforting

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a hug on a plate. Perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends, it combines flavorful layers of beef, melty cheese, and creamy potatoes into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.

Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping ahead for a potluck, this casserole is sure to become a

 new favorite in your rotation. Try it tonight and discover why so many people call this the best comfort casserole ever!