Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole – Hearty, Cheesy, and Comforting

Some nights just call for something warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying — the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug after a long day. That’s exactly what Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole delivers. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy, cheesy sauce bake together into a golden, bubbling dish that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of comfort food.

This old-fashioned casserole is a timeless favorite that’s been passed down through generations. It’s simple, wholesome, and made from ingredients most of us already have in the pantry. No fancy steps, no complicated prep — just a few layers, a little bake time, and a lot of flavor. It’s a family staple that’s as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for cozy Sunday dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Layer the casserole: Arrange half of the potato slices on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, then pour half of the soup mixture on top. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.
5. Top it off: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish and serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.

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Tips & Tricks:

• Slice evenly: Thin, uniform potato slices cook best. Use a mandoline for perfect slices if you have one.
• Add flavor: For a deeper, richer flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the beef.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or heavy cream to the sauce for extra richness.
• Shortcut version: Use frozen hash brown slices instead of fresh potatoes to save time — just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
• Cheese lovers: Try mixing cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra gooeyness.

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Variations:

• Loaded version: Add crumbled bacon, green onions, and an extra layer of cheese for a “loaded baked potato” twist.
• Veggie-packed: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or green beans for a balanced one-pan meal.
• Spicy kick: Stir a bit of hot sauce or diced jalapeños into the beef mixture for heat lovers.
• Cream of chicken version: Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup for a different flavor.
• Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Add 10 minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Add a slice of buttered bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Pair with pickles or coleslaw for a Southern-style family dinner.
• For a complete comfort meal, finish with a simple dessert like warm apple crisp or chocolate pudding.

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Storage Information:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole (before or after baking) — wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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FAQ:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it in the morning, cover, and refrigerate until dinner. Add 10 minutes to the baking time when reheating from cold.

Q: What kind of potatoes work best?
A: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal — they hold their shape but become tender and creamy when baked.

Q: Can I use cream of chicken soup instead?
A: Absolutely. It adds a lighter, slightly sweeter flavor that pairs well with ground beef.

Q: How can I make it healthier?
A: Use lean ground beef, low-sodium soup, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also replace half the potatoes with thinly sliced zucchini.

Q: Can I freeze it after baking?
A: Yes. Let it cool completely, then wrap well in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

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History / Fun Facts:
Casseroles have been a beloved part of American comfort food since the early 20th century, especially during the Great Depression and postwar years, when families needed hearty, budget-friendly meals that stretched simple ingredients. Hamburger Potato Casserole became a staple in home kitchens for exactly that reason — it was inexpensive, filling, and delicious.

The combination of beef, potatoes, and creamy soup sauce mirrors the flavors of old-fashioned diner favorites like meat-and-potatoes platters or shepherd’s pie, but in a convenient one-dish format. Over the decades, it’s evolved into countless versions — from classic Midwest recipes to modern slow-cooker adaptations — all unified by the same promise: cozy, fuss-free comfort in every bite.

It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t just fill your stomach but warms your heart — the kind of recipe passed down on handwritten index cards and remembered by the way it smells as it bakes. Every forkful tastes like home.