Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a classic, budget-friendly dish that layers thinly sliced potatoes with seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and melty cheese. Baked until golden and bubbling, this casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s simple to prepare, uses pantry staples, and is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole delivers hearty satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 5 small Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Colby Jack)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
3. Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛ inch thick). A mandoline slicer works great for even slices.
- Set aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
4. Mix the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.
5. Layer the Casserole
- In the prepared baking dish, layer the ingredients in the following order:
- A layer of sliced potatoes
- A portion of the cooked ground beef
- A few spoonfuls of the soup mixture
- A sprinkle of shredded cheese
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake Covered
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1 hour to allow the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld.
7. Bake Uncovered
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.
8. Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Pair with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips & Variations:
- Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist.
- Meat swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for variety.
- Add veggies: Layer in sautéed mushrooms, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Time & Yield:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 50 minutes
- Serves: 8–10
- Calories: ~435 per serving
Would you like a printable version of this recipe or a variation with a Tex-Mex twist? I can also help you turn this into a freezer-friendly meal!
Eating on a Dime – Hamburger Casserole Recipe