Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese into a delightful meal. It’s hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. The standout quality of this casserole is its layers of flavor and texture that your family will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole
• For the Sauce
• Seasonings
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
• Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 5: Bake the Casserole
• Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
• How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Complement with Bread
• Add Some Vegetables
• How to Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Reheating Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
• What type of cheese works best in Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
• How do I ensure my potatoes don’t turn brown?
• Can I customize this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
• What sides pair well with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: This casserole is packed with protein and carbs, making it a filling option for any meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or cheese varieties.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly and ensuring all flavors meld together.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch size allows for perfect layering of ingredients while providing even cooking.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth sauce by combining ingredients thoroughly without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch pieces
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese

For the Sauce

• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cheddar soup
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Seasonings

• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the ground beef and diced onion.
2. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Break up the beef as it cooks until browned and no longer pink.
4. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish:
1. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add one-fourth of the cooked beef mixture on top.
4. Sprinkle one-fourth of the grated cheddar cheese over the beef.
5. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a layer of potatoes topped by cheese.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together condensed cheddar soup, evaporated milk, milk, and garlic powder until smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Pour the sauce evenly over all layers in the baking dish:
1. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 60 minutes at 350°F (177°C).
3. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. This allows layers to set for easier serving.

Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and comforting casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Serving Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a family meal or a gathering with friends, there are many delightful ways to complement this comforting dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette can add freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese tossed in creamy dressing offers a nice contrast.

Complement with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls provide an easy and fluffy side option for sopping up flavors.

Add Some Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to the meal.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots can balance the richness of the casserole.

How to Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Perfecting your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole involves attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be afraid to generously season each layer of ingredients, especially the potatoes.
• Layer wisely: Ensure even distribution of meat and cheese for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Choose quality cheese: Using freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps set the layers for easier serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Complementing your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole with tasty side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and tanginess, balancing the richness of the casserole.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic summer side that pairs well with hearty dishes.
3. Mashed Potatoes: For potato lovers, creamy mashed potatoes provide extra comfort alongside the casserole.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor and vibrant color contrast.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans create a fulfilling combination with ground beef.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges deliver an additional potato element that’s always a hit!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole turn out perfectly. Here are some common pitfalls and how to dodge them:

• Ignoring Layering: Failing to layer the ingredients correctly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you distribute the potatoes, beef, and cheese evenly for a balanced flavor.
• Overcooking Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes too long before baking can result in mushy layers. Keep them sliced thin (¼-inch) to ensure they cook through properly during baking.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season each layer will leave your casserole bland. Use salt and pepper generously at every level for maximum flavor.
• Not Covering While Baking: Removing the foil too soon may cause the top to burn while the inside remains undercooked. Bake covered for the first hour to allow even cooking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold dairy products can affect the sauce consistency. Let your milk and soup sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before mixing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer individual portions to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet with a splash of milk. Stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole in advance by assembling it without baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.

What type of cheese works best in Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

While cheddar is classic, you can use Monterey Jack or Colby for different flavors. Mixing cheeses adds extra creaminess!

How do I ensure my potatoes don’t turn brown?

To prevent browning, keep sliced potatoes submerged in cold water until you’re ready to layer them into the casserole.

Can I customize this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch up seasonings based on your preferences.

What sides pair well with Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

This dish goes well with a simple side salad or steamed veggies, balancing out its richness beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different ingredients and make it your own. Give it a try for your next family dinner; it’s sure to please everyone at the table!