For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional, for added nutrition)
For Topping:
- Crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- Additional shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet and set aside.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken/mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sliced potatoes to the bowl and toss gently to coat them evenly in the sauce.
- Spread half of the potato mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Layer the remaining potatoes on top of the beef mixture. If using frozen peas or mixed vegetables, sprinkle them over this layer.
- Pour any remaining sauce from the bowl over the top of the casserole and spread it evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the top generously with shredded cheese (and crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs, if desired), and return the dish to the oven.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the top is crispy.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Thinly Slice Potatoes: Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to ensure even slices so they cook uniformly.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate diced carrots, corn, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from chilled.
- Freeze for Later: Prepare the casserole (unbaked), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Why This Recipe Works
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole brings together the best elements of comfort food: tender potatoes, savory beef, and a rich, creamy sauce topped with melted cheese. The layers of flavor and texture create a satisfying dish that’s both hearty and indulgent. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit your preferences while still delivering a comforting meal every time.
Conclusion: A Dish That Brings Everyone Together
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a potluck, or just craving something warm and comforting, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is sure to hit the spot. Its creamy, cheesy, and meaty layers make it a standout dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. Best of all, it’s a meal that appeals to all ages, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this cheesy casserole might just inspire others to try it too! 🍔🥔🧀✨