Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole – A Hearty Bake That Warms the Soul
Few things say comfort food quite like layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese baked to golden perfection. This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a retro classic that never goes out of style. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have.
Whether you’re feeding a family or craving leftovers for lunch, this casserole delivers big-time satisfaction in every bite.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish brings the warm, nostalgic vibes of a home-cooked meal with none of the fuss. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it hits all the marks: creamy from the soup and milk blend, savory from the seasoned beef and onion, and that cheesy finish on top is just irresistible.
Bonus: it’s totally customizable with whatever cheese or veggies you’ve got lying around.
Ingredients
- 3½ pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced ¼-inch thick
- 1 pound ground beef, crumbled and cooked
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- ½ cup whole milk
- 14 oz can cheese soup
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Swaps & Tips
- Beef: Sub in ground turkey or plant-based ground for a lighter option.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best; keep slices uniform for even baking.
- Cheese: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for added melt and flavor.
- Soup: Swap cheese soup with cream of mushroom or chicken for a flavor twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook Beef Mixture
- In a skillet, sauté diced onion and ground beef until meat is cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Slice and Layer
- Peel potatoes and slice into ¼-inch rounds.
- Arrange a layer of potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Add ⅓ of the cooked beef-onion mix.
- Top with ⅓ of the shredded cheddar.
- Repeat for two more layers, finishing with cheese.
Step 4: Mix and Pour Sauce
- In a bowl, stir together evaporated milk, whole milk, and cheese soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour over the entire casserole evenly.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until top is bubbly and browned.
Tips for Success
- Use a mandoline for even potato slices to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing—it sets up better.
- Add a layer of foil underneath the pan to catch any bubbling over.
- For a golden crust, broil the last 2–3 minutes (watch closely!).
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This casserole is hearty on its own, but a few light sides balance it beautifully:
- Add a side like A Light Tangy Chicken Salad
- Serve with a crunchy starter like Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- For party spreads, pair with Beer Cheese Dip or Crockpot Nacho Dip
- Make it a comfort food dinner night with Instant Pot Lasagna
Storage & Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in oven at 350°F or microwave in slices until warmed through.
- Freezes well for up to 2 months—wrap tightly and label.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Beer Cheese Dip
- Crockpot Nacho Dip
- Instant Pot Lasagna
- Light Tangy Chicken Salad
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the kind of cozy, hearty dish that makes you feel right at home. Easy to make, even better to eat, and always a hit with both kids and adults.
Give it a try and tag @chefmaniac with your cheesy creations! Don’t forget to follow for more crowd-pleasing casseroles and cozy dinners that bring people to the table.
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