Description
Creamy, hearty, and deeply comforting, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic oven-baked dish built on simple ingredients and timeless flavors. Tender potato layers, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese come together in a rich, velvety sauce that turns everyday pantry staples into a meal that truly satisfies.
Introduction
This is the kind of casserole that feels familiar the moment it comes out of the oven. It fills the kitchen with warmth, feeds a full table without effort, and delivers dependable comfort in every bite. Whether you are cooking for family, guests, or future leftovers, this dish is designed to make life easier and meals more meaningful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole uses only simple, easy-to-find ingredients with no complicated steps. It starts in one skillet, keeping cleanup minimal while building deep flavor. The recipe is flexible, freezer-friendly, and ideal for make-ahead meals. It is filling, crowd-pleasing, and often tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
Serves 6 to 8
For the casserole base
1 lb ground beef, preferably 85 percent lean
1 large yellow onion, finely diced
3 to 4 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
For the creamy sauce
1 can 10.5 oz cheddar cheese soup
1½ cups evaporated milk
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional additions
½ teaspoon garlic powder or smoked paprika
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 cup frozen peas or corn, thawed and drained
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking the meat into small crumbles, until fully browned. Drain excess fat, leaving about one tablespoon for flavor.
- Arrange one-third of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish, slightly overlapping. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Spread one-third of the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle with one-third of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cheddar cheese soup, evaporated milk, whole milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in any optional seasonings if using.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the casserole, allowing it to seep down between the layers.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Variations
You can substitute ground turkey for beef by adding one tablespoon of olive oil during browning. For extra vegetables, mix sautéed mushrooms, green beans, or peas into the meat layer. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese adds extra creaminess, while smoked cheddar brings a deeper flavor.
Tips for the Best Results
Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Drain the beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease. Always shred cheese fresh for the smoothest melt. Let the casserole rest before serving to achieve clean slices and balanced texture.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently at 325°F until warmed through. For freezing, assemble the casserole unbaked, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables for balance. Warm bread or dinner rolls pair beautifully, and applesauce or pickled vegetables add a classic comfort-food contrast.
FAQs
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Fresh potatoes are recommended, as frozen potatoes release excess moisture and can affect texture.
Why is my casserole watery?
This usually happens if the beef is not well drained or if too much liquid is added. Using evaporated milk helps keep the sauce thick and creamy.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a certified gluten-free cheddar soup and confirm all ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is not flashy or complicated, and that is exactly its strength. It bakes quietly, fills the home with comforting aromas, and delivers a meal that feels steady and generous. This is food made to be shared, remembered, and returned to again and again.