It was a chilly weeknight, and I was craving something warm, hearty, and comforting. You know that feeling—when all you want is a dish that reminds you of home, a recipe that fills the kitchen with savory aromas and feels like a warm hug in a bowl. That’s when I reached for my trusty ground beef and a few russet potatoes and decided to make this Hamburger & Potato Casserole.
This recipe has that cozy, old-fashioned vibe that makes you think of family dinners around the table. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tender slices of potato, and creamy, cheesy goodness all baked together—it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Short Description
Hamburger & Potato Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish layered with seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you need a hearty, satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Sharp knife or mandoline
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and garlic until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creamy mixture will help bind everything together and keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Top with half of the cooked beef mixture and pour over a third of the creamy soup mix. Sprinkle with a little cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, more sauce, and another layer of cheese.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Let It Rest & Serve
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything settle and makes it easier to slice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic – It’s like a hug in a casserole dish.
- Budget-Friendly – Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
- One-Dish Meal – Meat, potatoes, and cheese—all in one pan.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble it in the morning and bake later.
- Family-Approved – Even picky eaters go back for more.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
- Potatoes Too Thick? Use a mandoline or slice evenly so they cook through.
- Dry Casserole? Be generous with the creamy sauce and cover tightly with foil during baking.
- Beef Not Seasoned? Don’t skip the garlic, onion, and a pinch of paprika—it adds great flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.
- Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted veggies.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up every creamy bite.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well too.
Can I swap the soup for something homemade?
Absolutely. A homemade béchamel sauce or cream of chicken soup can be used instead.
Can I add vegetables?
Sure! Add frozen peas, carrots, or corn between layers for extra texture and color.
Final Thoughts
This Hamburger & Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a delicious reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something comforting and memorable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a make-ahead dish that reheats beautifully, this one is a keeper.
Once you try it, it just might become one of your go-to comfort meals.