If you’re looking for a hearty, budget-friendly, and delicious meal, this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is just what you need! With layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a make-ahead meal, this dish is easy to prepare and will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Casserole:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef – Juicy and flavorful base of the casserole.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced – The heart of the dish.
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth – Helps cook the potatoes and keep them moist.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Classic creamy base (or use cream of chicken).
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk – Thins out the sauce.
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese – Melty and delicious!
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning – Adds a hint of herbs.
For Topping:
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese – For a cheesy, golden crust.
- Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish.
Quick Tip: For extra richness, swap the milk for heavy cream or add a few tablespoons of sour cream!
How to Make Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (22×33 cm) baking dish with a little oil or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar, and thyme until smooth.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
- Layer 1/3 of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes.
- Pour 1/3 of the creamy sauce over the beef.
- Repeat with another layer of potatoes, ground beef, and sauce.
- Finish with a final layer of potatoes and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella (or cheddar) on top, and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk & spatula
- Aluminum foil
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes! Yukon Gold, Russet, or red potatoes all work well—just slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
What can I serve with this casserole?
- A simple green salad 🥗
- Steamed vegetables (broccoli, green beans) 🌿
- Garlic bread 🥖
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Of course! Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone!
If you loved this recipe, share it on Facebook or save it on Pinterest for later! 🥔🧀✨
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