Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese into a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a standout choice for cozy nights at home.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For the Cheesy Topping
• For the Sauce
• Seasoning
• How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
• Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 5: Bake the Casserole
• Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
• How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add a Bread Element
• Serve with Vegetables
• Include a Comforting Beverage
• How to Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Reheating Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different cheese types in my Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
• How do I make my Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole healthier?
• What can I serve with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
• How long does it take to prepare and cook Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
• Can I prepare Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of beef, cheese, and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering blend of flavors.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
• Leftover friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day and is great for meal prep!
• Kid-approved: A hit with kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic family meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly while allowing for easy mixing with onions.
• Baking dish: Designed for even cooking; a 9×13 size provides enough space for layers.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Essential for achieving a smooth sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch pieces

For the Cheesy Topping

• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese

For the Sauce

• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cheddar soup
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Seasoning

• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook the ground beef along with diced onion.
2. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Break up the beef as it cooks until browned with no pink remaining.
4. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In the prepared baking dish:
1. Layer sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add one-quarter of the cooked beef mixture on top.
4. Sprinkle one-quarter of the grated cheddar cheese over it.
5. Repeat these layers three more times until all ingredients are used.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together condensed cheddar soup, evaporated milk, regular milk, and garlic powder until smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over layered ingredients in the baking dish.
2. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
3. Bake for 60 minutes; then remove foil.
4. Continue baking an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown on top and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving to help layers set up nicely. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole warm!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Serving your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable for family and friends. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this hearty dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons tossed in creamy Caesar dressing.

Add a Bread Element

• Garlic Bread: Slices of toasted bread topped with garlic butter for a crunchy side.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.

Serve with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized carrots enhance the flavors of the casserole.

Include a Comforting Beverage

• Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that balances the richness of the casserole.
• Lemonade: adds a tart contrast that brightens up the meal.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

To ensure your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and quality ground beef enhance flavor and texture.
• Layer evenly: Distributing the ingredients evenly avoids clumps and ensures balanced flavor in every bite.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; you can always add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps set the layers for easier serving.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheese blends for unique flavors; mozzarella or gouda can add a nice twist.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Complement your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole with delicious side dishes that enhance its comforting flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage salad that provides a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory beans that pair well with ground beef dishes.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and texture to your plate.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent experience alongside the casserole.
5. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to your meal.
6. Cucumber Salad: Lightly dressed cucumbers bring a crisp texture that complements rich dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your ground beef and potatoes can lead to a bland casserole. Always add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can dry it out. Aim for a nice brown color, but don’t let it cook until crispy.

• Layering unevenly: If you don’t layer the ingredients evenly, some parts of the casserole may be dry while others are too soggy. Take care to distribute everything uniformly.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold potatoes or meat can affect cooking time. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.

• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for a few minutes to set before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of milk and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different cheese types in my Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Yes! You can swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I make my Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole healthier?

Consider using lean ground beef or turkey, and substitute reduced-fat cheese and milk options.

What can I serve with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare and cook Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

The total time from prep to bake is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour and 15 minutes of cooking time.

Can I prepare Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for an even more personalized touch. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks, so give this recipe a try—you’ll love how comforting each bite is!