Few dishes embody comfort food quite like a hearty casserole, and Hamburger & Potato Casserole is one of those timeless family favorites that never disappoints. This dish combines savory ground beef with tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese that ties it all together. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas while bubbling away in the oven and delivers pure satisfaction at the dinner table. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or even Sunday dinners, this casserole is a warm hug on a plate—rich, filling, and deeply comforting. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a make-ahead dish, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

Cooking Directions

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

2. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.

3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat.

4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.

5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.

6. Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour a little of the soup mixture on top, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.

7. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup mixture, and cheese, finishing with a generous cheese layer.

8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

10. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.

Nutrients (Approx. per serving, 6 servings)

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 23 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Saturated Fat: 10 g

• Carbohydrates: 34 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sodium: 740 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is comfort food at its finest. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare with ingredients you likely already have on hand. The layers of creamy potatoes and cheesy beef offer a melt-in-your-mouth combination that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can tweak it with different spices, sauces, or cheese blends to match your family’s taste. Most importantly, it’s one of those recipes that not only fills bellies but also creates lasting food memories around the dinner table.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Hamburger & Potato Casserole is rooted in the tradition of American casseroles that rose to popularity in the mid-20th century. With families seeking budget-conscious meals that could stretch ingredients while feeding several mouths, casseroles became a household staple. The use of ground beef and potatoes was common in farming and working-class families, as both were affordable, accessible, and filling. Over time, condensed soups like cream of mushroom became popular shortcuts, turning humble pantry staples into creamy, comforting one-dish meals. This recipe continues that tradition while allowing room for modern twists.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground beef is the star protein here, providing rich flavor and protein that makes the dish satisfying. Potatoes, a staple crop, add structure and substance, soaking up the creamy sauce while delivering comfort in every bite. Cream of mushroom soup contributes depth and creaminess, while cheddar cheese brings sharpness and gooey texture. Onions and garlic build aromatic flavor, while paprika adds a smoky touch that enhances the beef. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is simple yet layered with flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Hamburger & Potato Casserole stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Leftovers should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in portions for a quicker option. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil and placed in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Variations to Try

There are endless ways to adapt this casserole to fit your preferences. For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for different flavors. Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to make it more nutritious and colorful. For spice lovers, mix in jalapeños or hot sauce. You can also top the casserole with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Another fun variation is to use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweet twist.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs perfectly with simple sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, while roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans round out the meal. Garlic bread or dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments to soak up the creamy sauce. For drinks, try serving with iced tea, a light lager, or a glass of red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the beef.

Health Benefits

Though indulgent, this dish also offers nutritional value. Ground beef provides protein, iron, and B vitamins essential for energy and muscle health. Potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, especially if you leave the skins on. Adding onions and garlic introduces antioxidants that support immunity. By using reduced-fat cheese or lean ground beef, you can lighten up the dish while still enjoying its comforting qualities. When paired with fresh vegetables or a salad, it makes for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Hamburger & Potato Casserole is a dish that celebrates the heart of comfort food—simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s warm, filling, and versatile enough to adapt to any taste or occasion. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner, taken to a potluck, or enjoyed as leftovers the next day, it’s a recipe that brings families together over good food. Once you try it, this casserole will likely become a go-to meal in your household for years to come.