Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Hearty, Budget-Friendly Family Favorite

Craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both easy to make and budget-friendly? Look no further than this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole! Packed with layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Plus, it’s fully customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs potatoes, washed, peeled, and thinly sliced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other spices
• Optional: fresh parsley, chives, or green onions for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly golden finish.

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and thinly slice the potatoes. For uniform slices, use a mandoline slicer if available. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking.

Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add diced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix the condensed soup and milk until smooth. This creamy blend keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.

Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the sliced potatoes on the bottom, followed by half the beef mixture and half the soup mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with an even spread of shredded cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Cool & Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Extra Tips for Success

• Use a Mandoline: For quick and uniform potato slices.
• Add More Veggies: Boost nutrition with mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or shredded carrots.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Healthier Swap: Use ground turkey, low-sodium soup, and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.

Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking.
• Freezing: Freeze fully cooked casserole in portions or whole. Wrap well and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F.

Why You’ll Love It

• ✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
• ✅ Easy to Prepare: Perfect for beginners or busy nights.
• ✅ Kid-Approved: Cheesy, simple, and satisfying.
• ✅ Customizable: Adapt to your family’s taste or dietary needs.

This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy, feel-good dish that brings everyone together. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.