Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Are you craving a warm, cheesy, and savory meal that’s both filling and easy to make? Look no further than the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole! This recipe combines juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese to create a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe offers an irresistible flavor experience that everyone will love. Keep reading for a detailed guide to creating this delicious casserole from start to finish.

What Is Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a layered dish made of seasoned ground beef, sliced or diced potatoes, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The ingredients come together in the oven, where they bake to perfection. The casserole is easy to customize based on your family’s preferences, and it’s also a great way to use pantry staples you likely already have on hand. With its layers of flavor and texture, this dish has become a beloved classic for good reason.

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Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Before getting started, you’ll want to gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this casserole. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to create a flavorful and hearty meal.

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef – This provides the "hamburger" portion of the dish and gives the casserole its savory base.
• 6 medium-sized potatoes – Peeled and thinly sliced or diced, depending on your preference.
• 1 large onion – Finely chopped to add extra flavor to the beef mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced to give a subtle depth of flavor.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The gooey, melty cheese topping is what makes this dish extra indulgent.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – For that creamy consistency.
• 1 cup milk – To help thin out the soup and create a smooth sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To season both the meat and the potato layers.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For an additional layer of smoky flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning the ground beef.

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoon fresh parsley – Chopped and sprinkled on top for a touch of color and freshness.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are some substitution ideas and variations you can try to make the recipe suit your needs or taste preferences:

• Ground Beef Substitutes: If you don’t have ground beef, you can swap it with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a leaner or different flavor profile.
• Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to use a blend of different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for added flavor complexity.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup Substitutes: Not a fan of mushrooms? Use cream of chicken, celery, or even make a homemade béchamel sauce if you prefer something less processed.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based soups.
• Spicy Version: Want a bit of a kick? Add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture.
• Potato Options: While classic russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well, you can use sweet potatoes for a twist in flavor or even try thinly sliced carrots for a different texture.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s walk through the steps of making this irresistible Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the mixture aside.
3. Prepare the Potatoes: While the beef is cooking, peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds or cubes (around ¼ inch thick). Ensure they're evenly sliced so they cook uniformly.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth. This will create the creamy layer that helps bind the casserole.
5. Layer the Casserole: Begin layering your ingredients in the greased baking dish. Start with a layer of potatoes at the bottom, followed by half of the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour a third of the soup-milk mixture over the beef. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of potatoes on top.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of potatoes. This will create the gooey, golden topping that makes this dish so irresistible.
7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice into portions.

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How to Cook Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

For those who like a clear visual breakdown, here’s a simple overview of the key steps:

1. Brown the ground beef and onions.
2. Slice the potatoes thinly.
3. Create a creamy sauce using cream of mushroom soup and milk.
4. Layer the potatoes, ground beef, and sauce in a baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake until golden brown and the potatoes are fully cooked.
7. Let the casserole rest, then serve!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, there are a few common pitfalls that can impact the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Undercooking the Potatoes: Thinly slicing your potatoes is key to ensuring they cook through. If they’re too thick, you may end up with raw, crunchy spots.
• Overcrowding the Dish: Don’t pile on too many ingredients. Make sure each layer is even and that you have enough room for the cheese to melt and the flavors to combine.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Letting the casserole rest before serving allows it to firm up, which makes slicing and serving easier.
• Not Draining the Beef: If you skip draining the fat from the ground beef, your casserole could become greasy.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a filling and delicious meal, but with the right presentation, you can elevate it even further. Here’s how to make your dish visually appealing.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole:

• Serve in large, square portions with a spatula.
• Pair with a crisp, green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• You can also serve this casserole alongside garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole:

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of green color.
• Serve on a rustic wooden board or in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or paprika over the top for a vibrant touch.

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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep in Advance: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven.
• Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well. Make an extra casserole, let it cool completely, and freeze it for up to three months.
• Crispy Topping: For an added crunch, sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

What are some good side dishes for this casserole?
This hearty dish pairs well with simple side dishes like steamed vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness.

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Conclusion

The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. With its layers of savory beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s easy to customize, meaning you can tweak it to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand. So why not give it a try tonight? You won’t be disappointed!

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