If comfort food had a superstar, it would be the Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe that’s been delighting families for generations. This dish is a perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy, and savory layers that combine ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and that unmistakable cozy mushroom soup flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or feeding a crowd, this casserole hits all the right notes with its warm texture and inviting aroma that instantly welcomes you to the table. If you love meals that are both satisfying and simple to prepare, this recipe will quickly earn a permanent spot on your favorite dinner list.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is straightforward but mighty in flavor, coming together to create that irresistible layered goodness. From the hearty beef to the creamy soup, every component adds its own magic to the dish.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a rich, protein-packed foundation with just the right amount of savory flavor.
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base that binds the casserole and adds a comforting umami punch.
- ¾ cup milk: Lightens the soup mixture slightly to keep the casserole creamy without being too thick.
- ½ cup chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to balance the richness.
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything into perfect harmony.
- 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes: Tender, melt-in-your-mouth layers that soak up all the savory juices.
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese: The golden, bubbly topper that delivers a melty finish everyone loves.
How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
The first step is to cook your ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned and crumbly, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, make sure to drain any excess grease so your casserole won’t be greasy but perfectly balanced.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Soup Mixture
While your beef is browning, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This luscious mixture acts as the heart of the casserole, giving it a silky texture and rich flavor that melds perfectly with everything else.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part: assembling the casserole. In a 2-quart baking dish, alternate layers starting with a bed of thinly sliced potatoes, followed by a generous spoonful of the soup mixture, then a layer of browned ground beef. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, making sure the soup soaks through the potatoes for that ideal tenderness.
Step 4: Bake and Add Cheese
Pop the assembled dish into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the potatoes become tender—this slow cooking is the secret to the casserole’s melt-in-your-mouth appeal. Then, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese on top and return it to the oven until the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly golden.
How to Serve Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To bring a bright contrast and fresh bite, try sprinkling some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top after baking. These vibrant garnishes not only add a pop of color but also a slight hint of freshness that beautifully balances the creamy richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe shines as a hearty main dish, but pairing it with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables adds a lighter, refreshing element to the meal. A simple side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a tangy coleslaw complements the flavors while keeping things nourishing and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this for guests or a special family occasion, consider making individual servings in ramekins for a charming presentation. You could also top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a few crunchy fried onions to add texture and make every bite an exciting experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners during busy weekdays.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, so if you’d like to save some for later, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Properly stored, it can last for up to 2 months, giving you a ready-made comfort meal whenever you need it.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, which usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to keep moisture in, and if you want to revive that melty cheese topping, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of mushroom?
Absolutely! While cream of mushroom provides a classic flavor, you can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a slightly different but equally delicious taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might shift subtly, but it’ll still be comforting and tasty.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling makes the texture smoother and more traditional for this casserole, but if you prefer a more rustic feel, leaving the skins on is fine too. Just be sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Of course! Diced carrots, peas, or green beans can be stirred into the layers to add more color and nutrition. Just keep the vegetables cut small and consider their cooking times to ensure everything finishes tender.
What type of cheese works best for the topping?
Cheddar cheese is classic for a reason, offering a sharp, rich flavor and great meltability. However, Monterey Jack or Colby cheese can also be excellent alternatives if you want a milder or creamier finish.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
The best way is to insert a fork or knife into the casserole around the 1-hour mark; it should slide in easily without resistance. If the potatoes are still firm, continue baking and check every 10-15 minutes until tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about the Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe that goes beyond just its flavors—it’s about a dish that brings loved ones together and satisfies everyone at the table. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try, especially if you’re craving a meal that’s both nostalgic and comforting. Once you experience those layers of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and gooey cheese, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic that keeps everyone coming back for more.
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Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This classic Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, kid-friendly dish that combines ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender sliced potatoes baked to perfection. Topped with melted Cheddar cheese, it’s a hearty meal perfect for family dinners and sure to satisfy both picky eaters and adults alike.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Soup Mixture
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup chopped onion
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Other
- 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cook ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Cook and stir until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard any excess grease to keep the dish lean.
- Make soup mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Layer casserole: In a 2-quart baking dish, alternate layers of the peeled thinly sliced potatoes, the soup mixture, and the browned ground beef. This layering ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Bake casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add cheese topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Melt cheese: Return the casserole to the oven and bake just until the Cheddar cheese has melted and is bubbly, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting hamburger potato casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ground beef or turkey.
- Make sure potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking within the baking time.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 20 mins
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
