Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole brings together everything you love about a classic cheeseburger and creamy potatoes in one hearty, oven-baked dish. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, rich sauce, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that feels comforting and filling. Because Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole comes together quickly and bakes in a single dish, it works perfectly for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd.
I first made this casserole on a cold evening when I wanted something simple but deeply comforting. I had ground beef and potatoes on hand and decided to layer them with cheese instead of making separate dishes. As it baked, the cheese melted into the beef while the potatoes turned perfectly tender. When we scooped it onto plates, it tasted like a cheeseburger and loaded mashed potatoes combined. Since then, this casserole has become a regular dinner solution whenever I need something dependable and satisfying.
Why Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Is So Popular
Classic flavors in one pan
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole delivers familiar flavors in every bite. Ground beef provides savory richness, while potatoes add heartiness and structure. Melted cheese ties everything together with creamy texture and bold flavor.
Because the ingredients are simple and widely loved, this casserole appeals to both kids and adults. It tastes like comfort food without requiring complicated steps. Therefore, it becomes an easy go-to meal for families.
Budget-friendly and filling
Another reason Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole stands out involves affordability. Ground beef and potatoes remain cost-effective ingredients that stretch well. A single 9×13-inch baking dish can feed six to eight people generously.
Since everything bakes in one dish, cleanup stays simple. As a result, this recipe saves both time and money while delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the beef layer
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the potato and cheese layers
- 4–5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soup
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
These ingredients create layers that bake together into a creamy, cheesy casserole with tender potatoes and flavorful beef.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the beef
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion and garlic. Break it apart as it cooks until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Cooking the beef first builds deep flavor and prevents excess grease in the casserole. Once browned, set aside.
Step 2: Layer the casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom. Spoon half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese. Because layering distributes ingredients evenly, each serving contains balanced flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain excess fat and season.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the potatoes, half the beef, and half the cheese. Repeat layers.
- Whisk milk and soup together. Pour evenly over casserole. Drizzle melted butter on top.
- Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes. Uncover and bake 15-20 minutes more until golden and potatoes are tender.
- Rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Step 3: Add the creamy mixture
In a bowl, whisk together milk and cream soup until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
The liquid helps cook the potatoes while creating a creamy sauce. As the casserole bakes, the potatoes soften and absorb the rich flavors.
Step 4: Bake until golden and tender
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until the top turns golden and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Slice potatoes thinly
Thin, even slices cook more quickly and evenly. If slices are too thick, they may remain firm. Therefore, aim for consistent thickness to ensure tender results.
Add extra toppings
For more cheeseburger flavor, sprinkle extra cheddar during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can also add chopped pickles or green onions before serving for a fun twist.
Make it lighter or gluten-free
Use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. To make the dish gluten-free, choose a certified gluten-free condensed soup and double-check seasonings.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Because the casserole is rich and hearty, lighter sides balance the meal perfectly.
It also works well for potlucks and gatherings. Simply bake, transport, and serve straight from the dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual servings.
The flavors deepen after resting overnight, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and reduces fat content.
Do I need to parboil the potatoes first?
No, thin slicing and proper baking time ensure they cook through.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, add peas, carrots, or bell peppers between layers for extra nutrition.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but Colby Jack or mozzarella also work.
How do I know when it’s done?
Insert a fork into the center. If the potatoes are tender, it’s ready.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole delivers comforting flavor, hearty texture, and easy preparation in one satisfying dish. With layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it transforms simple ingredients into a family-favorite meal. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or bring it to a gathering, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole guarantees warm, filling comfort every time.
