If you’re in need of a simple, hearty meal that brings the whole family together, this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the answer! It combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey melted cheddar cheese into one cozy dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.

Jump to Recipe

Why This Recipe is a Winner 🎉

Simple Ingredients: Made with affordable pantry staples, this casserole is easy to pull together with ingredients you likely already have.
One-Dish Wonder: With meat, potatoes, and cheese all in one dish, there’s no need to worry about extra sides.
Comforting & Hearty: It’s like a classic burger and fries in a warm, cheesy casserole great for cold weather or when you need a little comfort food.
Quick Prep & Hands-Off Cooking: Minimal prep and mostly hands-off baking time make this an ideal option for busy schedules.

Ingredients 🛒

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef
Tip: Lean ground beef works well to prevent excess grease, but any ground beef will do.
4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
Tip: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes hold up well and add a creamy texture.
1 small onion, chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Tip: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.
1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
Tip: Adds a creamy, savory base swap with cream of chicken if preferred.
1/2 cup milk
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: garlic powder or other favorite seasonings for an extra flavor boost

How to Make Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole 👩‍🍳

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Tip: While the oven preheats, this is the perfect time to brown the beef and prep your ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onions, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle in some garlic powder or your favorite seasonings, such as paprika or Italian herbs.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick) and layer them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Tip: Using a mandoline slicer can help create even, thin slices for faster cooking.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture over the sliced potatoes, creating an even layer.

Step 5: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Tip: This mixture adds moisture and creaminess to the casserole, helping the potatoes cook to tender perfection.

Step 6: Pour and Top with Cheese

Pour the soup mixture evenly over the beef and potato layers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, covering the casserole with a layer of cheesy goodness. Tip: Feel free to add a bit of extra cheese if you’re a cheese lover!

Baking Instructions 🍲

Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil to help steam the potatoes and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Uncover and Bake Again: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender. Tip: For a golden, crispy cheese topping, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven, and consider these sides and toppings to complete the meal:

Fresh Salad: A side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
Green Beans or Roasted Veggies: A simple vegetable side, like green beans or broccoli, balances the hearty flavors.
Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or even some crumbled bacon on top for extra flair!

Tips for the Best Hamburger Potato Casserole 🌟

Thinner Potato Slices = Faster Cooking: Thin, even slices help the potatoes cook more quickly and evenly. You can even parboil the potatoes for a few minutes if you’re short on time.
Customize the Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist.
Season to Taste: A dash of Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, or paprika can add depth of flavor to the beef layer.

The Backstory of This Recipe 📖

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is inspired by classic American comfort foods and the love of one-pan meals that make life easier. It’s a nostalgic dish that combines all the best parts of a hearty meat-and-potato dinner in a warm, bubbling casserole that reminds us of family gatherings and cozy nights. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying main dish or a cozy meal to share, this recipe delivers the perfect blend of flavor and comfort.

Make It Your Own! 💡

This casserole is endlessly customizable, so don’t be afraid to get creative! Swap ground beef for ground turkey, try cream of celery soup for a different flavor, or toss in some diced green peppers for a bit of crunch. You can also double the recipe and freeze half for an easy make-ahead meal!