If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s both filling and flavorful, a Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the answer. This dish combines tender, sliced potatoes with savory ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly casserole perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering, cheesy casserole. The base is made from 3½ pounds of potatoes, which provide a satisfying, hearty texture. The 1 pound of crumbled cooked ground beef brings in protein and flavor, while 12 ounces of evaporated milk and a can of cheese soup combine to make a creamy sauce. You’ll also need ½ cup of whole milk to balance the creaminess and ensure everything blends together perfectly. A diced yellow onion adds a savory depth to the dish, and 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese creates the gooey, golden topping. Seasoned with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, this casserole hits all the right notes in terms of flavor.
Instructions
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F and greasing a 13×9-inch baking dish. This will ensure the casserole doesn’t stick to the pan as it bakes. While the oven is heating, sauté the crumbled cooked ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. The goal here is to cook the beef through and allow the onion to soften, releasing its natural sweetness into the mix.
As the beef and onion cook, peel the potatoes and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. This thickness will help them cook evenly while also holding their shape during baking. Next, arrange a layer of potatoes on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Once the potatoes are in place, grind some salt and pepper over them to season the base layer. Add about a third of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle a third of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef. Repeat these layers twice, ending with a generous cheese layer on top.
Next, prepare the creamy sauce by mixing the evaporated milk, whole milk, and cheese soup together in a bowl. Stir the ingredients well until the mixture is smooth, then taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper as needed. Pour the milk and soup mixture evenly over the casserole, making sure to cover all the layers of potatoes and beef.
Cover the casserole with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 1 hour. The foil helps to lock in moisture, allowing the potatoes to cook thoroughly and the flavors to meld together. After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly. This final step gives the casserole a beautiful, golden, and slightly crispy cheese topping. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
To ensure your casserole has a rich and creamy texture, it’s important to use a can of cheese soup along with the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese soup helps to bind everything together and adds a creamy consistency. You can use regular cheddar cheese, but sharp cheddar will add a stronger, more pronounced flavor.
If you’re in a hurry, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to increase the cooking time by 10–15 minutes, as it will need to heat through properly.
For a variation, try adding some vegetables to the casserole, such as sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even frozen peas. These can add color, texture, and flavor to the dish, making it even more well-rounded.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing helps to cut through the richness of the casserole. If you prefer a more substantial side, consider serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a side of garlic bread for a satisfying, family-style meal.
Storage
Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, depending on the portion size.
If you want to make the casserole in advance and freeze it for later, simply assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and freeze before baking. When ready to cook, bake it from frozen for 1½ to 2 hours, or until it’s fully heated through and bubbly. Freezing the casserole is a great way to have a ready-to-bake meal for busy nights or when you need a comforting dish in a pinch.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby. However, cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness that complements the dish perfectly.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used in place of ground beef. If you’re using sausage, you may want to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as it can be saltier than beef.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it the next day as instructed.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines creamy potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese into a satisfying meal. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a few basic ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy this recipe with your loved ones for a cozy and delicious meal!
Print
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Description
A hearty and comforting casserole made with tender layers of potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked together in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
• 3½ pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 pound crumbled cooked ground beef
• 12 oz evaporated milk
• 14 oz can cheese soup
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 diced yellow onion
• 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Sauté the crumbled ground beef and diced onion in a skillet until the beef is cooked through and the onion softens.
3️⃣ Slice the potatoes into ¼-inch rounds and layer them in the prepared baking dish.
4️⃣ Season the potatoes with salt and pepper, then layer with a third of the beef mixture and a third of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers twice, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
5️⃣ Mix together the evaporated milk, whole milk, and cheese soup, and pour it over the casserole.
6️⃣ Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
7️⃣ Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the cheese.
8️⃣ Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!