Hamburger and Potato Casserole

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🍲 Hamburger and Potato Casserole

A comforting, family-friendly casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This one-dish meal is budget-friendly, easy to prep, and perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead dinners.

📖 Description

Hamburger and Potato Casserole is a classic baked dish that layers thinly sliced potatoes with savory ground beef and a rich, creamy sauce, finished with melted cheese. It bakes into a hearty, satisfying meal that pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables.

⏱️ Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 70–80 minutes

  • Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

  • Servings: 6 servings

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

  • 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup

  • ½ cup milk

  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

  • Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned; drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

  3. Prepare sauce: In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.

  4. Assemble casserole:

    • Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.

    • Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.

    • Pour half of the soup mixture on top.

    • Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.

  5. Cover and bake with foil for 50–60 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

  6. Add cheese: Remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

  7. Rest & serve: Let sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

📝 Notes

  • Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.

  • Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best.

  • You can substitute cream of chicken soup if preferred.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Extra veggies: Add peas, corn, mushrooms, or spinach between layers.

  • Make it lighter: Use lean ground beef and reduced-fat soup and cheese.

  • Crispy top: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (watch closely).

  • Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal

  • Protein: 24 g

  • Fat: 22 g

  • Carbohydrates: 32 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: 720 mg

(Values are estimates and vary by ingredients used.)

🌟 Benefits

  • High in protein for muscle support and satiety

  • Comforting & filling, ideal for family meals

  • Budget-friendly ingredients

  • One-dish meal = easy cleanup

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes or hash browns?
A: Yes, thaw them first and reduce baking time slightly.

Q: Can this casserole be frozen?
A: Absolutely. Freeze fully baked or unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating or baking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes—use a certified gluten-free condensed soup.

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