Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together all the best elements of a comforting meal: tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy cheddar sauce. The dish is both filling and flavorful, with a perfect balance of textures—from the creamy potatoes to the hearty ground beef layer. The sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding richness and depth to each bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

Creamy Sauce Base:

• 1 can cheddar cheese soup (14 oz)
• 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
• ½ cup heavy cream

Ground Beef Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Potato & Cheese:

• 2½ lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Wash and peel the Yukon Gold potatoes, then slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef:

3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
4. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

5. In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar cheese soup, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Casserole:

6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
7. Spoon half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the creamy sauce.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef mixture, and creamy sauce.
9. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake:

10. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

12. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the ground beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Version: For a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef layer.
• Use Different Cheese: Feel free to substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Meat Alternatives: For a healthier version, use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef. You could also use a vegetarian meat substitute for a plant-based option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

1. Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold potatoes?

Yes, you can use russet potatoes, but Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamier texture that holds up better in casseroles. Russets may break down a little more during baking.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese soup?

If you don’t have cheddar cheese soup, you can use other cream-based soups, such as cream of mushroom or cream of chicken, but the flavor will be different. The cheddar cheese soup gives the casserole its signature cheesy flavor.

5. Can I use lean ground beef?

Yes, you can use lean ground beef, but be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well in this casserole too.

6. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The top should be golden brown and bubbly.

7. Can I skip the heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the heavy cream and use an extra can of evaporated milk or low-fat milk instead.

8. Can I add extra cheese on top?

Yes, if you love cheesy casseroles, feel free to add more cheese on top before baking. You can also sprinkle some cheese midway through baking for an even gooier topping.

9. Can I use frozen potatoes?

Frozen diced potatoes can be used, but they may release more moisture during cooking. Make sure to drain any excess water or liquid before assembling the casserole.

10. Can I add more spices to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add more spices to suit your taste, such as garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, or Italian seasoning for additional flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a family gathering, or a comforting weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to please everyone. This casserole is simple to make and packed with delicious flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

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