Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole 

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Why This Casserole Is a Family Favorite

This dish has stayed popular for generations because it is:

  • Hearty and filling
  • Easy to prepare
  • Kid-friendly
  • Perfect for leftovers
  • Customizable with what you have on hand

It’s the kind of meal that feels like home—warm, cheesy, and comforting from the first bite to the last.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Layer

  • 500 g (1 lb) ground beef (hamburger)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

For the Potato Layer

  • 1.2 kg (about 2½ lb) potatoes, peeled
  • Thinly sliced (about 3–4 mm thick)

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 1 can (300 ml / 10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
  • 1 tablespoon butter

For the Cheese Topping

  • 2½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
  • Optional: extra cheese for final topping

Optional Add-Ins

  • ½ cup frozen corn or peas
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (for heat)

Choosing the Best Potatoes

For the best texture:

  • Yukon Gold or white potatoes → creamy and tender
  • Russet potatoes → softer, more classic casserole style

Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.

Preparing the Hamburger Mixture

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Season Well

Add garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs. Stir and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, mix:

  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Milk
  • Sour cream
  • Butter (melted)

Stir until smooth. This sauce keeps the casserole creamy and prevents dryness.

Assembling the Casserole

Step 1: Grease the Dish

Lightly grease a medium to large baking dish (about 9×13 inches).

Step 2: First Potato Layer

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Meat Layer

Spread the seasoned hamburger mixture evenly over the potatoes.

Step 4: Sauce + Cheese

Pour half of the creamy sauce over the meat, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 5: Final Layers

Add the remaining potatoes on top. Pour the rest of the sauce evenly over everything.

Cover tightly with foil.

Baking the Casserole

Step 1: Covered Baking

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 60 minutes, covered with foil.

This allows the potatoes to cook through and absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Finish

Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and return to the oven uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until:

  • Cheese is melted and golden
  • Potatoes are fork-tender
  • Sauce is bubbling around the edges

Resting Time (Important!)

Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Texture & Flavor Breakdown

  • Potatoes: Soft, tender, and creamy
  • Beef: Savory and well-seasoned
  • Sauce: Rich and comforting
  • Cheese: Melted, gooey, and golden

Every layer works together beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slicing Potatoes Too Thick

Thick slices may stay undercooked.

Not Covering Initially

Without foil, the top may brown before the potatoes cook.

Skipping Seasoning

Potatoes need seasoning at every layer.

Delicious Variations

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Add cooked bacon bits and a little mustard to the beef.

Mexican-Style Version

Add taco seasoning, corn, and use pepper jack cheese.

Extra Creamy Version

Add ½ cup heavy cream to the sauce.

Vegetable-Loaded Version

Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for balance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole with:

  • Fresh green salad
  • Steamed vegetables
  • Pickles or coleslaw
  • Crusty bread

It’s a full meal on its own but pairs well with lighter sides.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days
  • Freeze for up to 2 months
  • Reheat in oven for best texture

Add a splash of milk when reheating if needed.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

  • Calories: 420–480
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g

A hearty, satisfying meal perfect for colder days.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food done right. It’s warm, filling, easy to make, and loved by everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to share, this casserole never disappoints.

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