Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, creamy potatoes, and cheese in one satisfying casserole. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner, and it’s great for feeding a crowd. Here’s a simple recipe to make this easy and delicious casserole:
Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish with cooking spray or a little butter.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Set the beef mixture aside.
- Prepare the potato mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. In the greased casserole dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes, then pour half of the soup mixture on top. Sprinkle with a little cheese. Repeat the layers—add the remaining beef, soup mixture, and then top with the rest of the shredded cheese.
- Add breadcrumbs (optional): If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is great on its own or paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips:
- Potato Variations: You can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a firmer bite.
- Cheese Options: You can swap out the cheddar for any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of both.
- Add Vegetables: For extra veggies, you can stir in frozen peas, corn, or even spinach with the beef mixture before layering it into the casserole.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a satisfying, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights. It’s full of flavor, cheesy, and guaranteed to please the whole family! Enjoy!
