There’s something about a warm, cheesy casserole that just screams comfort food. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need something hearty and satisfying, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the perfect go-to dish. It’s packed with tender layers of seasoned potatoes, juicy ground beef, and loads of gooey cheddar cheese. Plus, it’s an easy, no-fuss meal that the whole family will love.

This dish reminds me of my childhood when my mom would throw together simple ingredients to make the best dinners. I swear, nothing beat the smell of potatoes and cheese baking in the oven! Now, I love making this for my own family because not only is it delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly and easy to prep.

So, let’s dive right into this cheesy goodness!

What You’ll Need

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
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cheddar soup
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven warmed up! Set it to 350°F (177°C) so that by the time everything is prepped, you can just pop the casserole in.

Pro Tip: Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions

Grab a large skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion, seasoning with a little salt and pepper. Cook it until the beef is browned and there’s no pink left.

Make sure to break up the beef as it cooks so you get nice, even crumbles. Once it’s done, drain off any excess grease—no one wants a greasy casserole!

Step 3: Start Layering

Now comes the fun part—assembling the casserole!

1. Layer the Potatoes: Start by placing a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure to season each layer with salt and pepper! This helps build flavor throughout the dish.
2. Add the Beef & Cheese: Sprinkle ¼ of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by ¼ of the grated cheddar cheese.
3. Repeat: Keep layering the ingredients the same way—potatoes, beef, cheese—until everything is used up. This will ensure that every bite has the perfect balance of flavors.

Pro Tip: Slice your potatoes evenly (about ¼-inch thick) to ensure they cook uniformly. A mandoline slicer makes this super easy!

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sauce

Now, let’s bring everything together with a rich, cheesy sauce.

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Condensed cheddar soup
• Evaporated milk
• Milk
• Garlic powder

Mix it until everything is nice and smooth. This sauce will soak into the layers while baking, giving you a creamy, cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered casserole. Make sure it seeps into all the nooks and crannies!

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 6: Let it Rest & Serve

Once your casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will help it set, making it easier to serve.

Serve up a big, cheesy scoop, and get ready for pure comfort food heaven!

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How to Get the Perfect Texture

One of the most important things in this casserole is getting the right texture—nobody wants mushy potatoes or dry layers! Here’s how to nail it every time:

• Slice Evenly: Keep those potatoes at ¼-inch thick so they cook uniformly. A mandoline slicer makes this easy, but a sharp knife works too.
• Season Every Layer: Salt and pepper each layer of potatoes as you go. This small step ensures that every bite is flavorful, not bland.
• Cover Tightly While Baking: The foil traps in moisture, softening the potatoes and making them extra creamy. Removing it for the last 15 minutes gives you that perfect golden-brown topping.

Customization & Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Try these easy variations to customize your casserole:

1. Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition

Sneak in some extra goodness by adding veggies between the layers. Here are some great options:

• Broccoli – Chop into small florets for a little crunch.
• Corn – Adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with cheese.
• Carrots – Slice them thin so they soften while baking.
• Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add depth and richness.

2. Make It a Full Meal with Protein Upgrades

Ground beef is classic, but here are some fun protein swaps:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken – A lighter alternative that still packs flavor.
• Sausage – Italian sausage adds a bold, slightly spicy twist.
• Shredded Roast Beef – Want a richer, heartier flavor? Try leftover pot roast or shredded brisket instead of ground beef.

3. Spice It Up!

If you like a little heat, here’s how to bring some spice into the mix:

• Cajun Seasoning – Adds smoky heat and depth of flavor.
• Diced Jalapeños – Layer them in for a bit of a kick.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle in for subtle heat without overpowering the dish.

4. Make It Even Cheesier

If two cups of cheese isn’t enough (and honestly, when is it ever?), try mixing in different cheeses:

• Colby Jack – Adds extra creaminess and melts beautifully.
• Pepper Jack – Perfect for a little spice.
• Smoked Gouda – Gives a smoky, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with potatoes.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

One of the best things about this casserole is that it makes amazing leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it so it tastes just as delicious the next day:

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing for Later

• If you want to freeze it, bake it without cheese on top first.
• Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.

Best Way to Reheat

• For individual portions, microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is already a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are some perfect side dishes:

• Simple Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy layers.
• Pickles or Coleslaw – The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese.
• Garlic Bread – Because carbs + carbs = happiness.
• Roasted Veggies – Add some color to your plate!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why are my potatoes still hard after baking?

If your potatoes aren’t fully tender, it’s likely because they were sliced too thick or weren’t covered properly during baking. Try slicing them ¼-inch thick and make sure they are evenly layered. Also, keeping the dish tightly covered for the first 60 minutes allows the potatoes to steam and soften properly.

Quick Fix: If your casserole is already baked but the potatoes are still firm, cover the dish again and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance.

When ready to bake:

• Let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
• Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes since it’s starting from a cold state.

3. Can I use a different type of potato?

Russet potatoes work best because they soften nicely and soak up the cheesy sauce. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option since they hold their shape well and have a buttery texture.

Avoid waxy potatoes (like red potatoes), as they won’t absorb the sauce as well and may remain too firm.

4. What if I don’t have condensed cheddar soup?

No worries! You can easily make a homemade cheesy sauce alternative:

DIY Cheddar Sauce:

• Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.
• Slowly add 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly.
• Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder.

Use this sauce as a direct substitute for the canned cheddar soup.

5. How can I make this casserole healthier?

If you want a lighter version, try these swaps:

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for less fat.
• Swap out half the cheese for reduced-fat cheese.
• Use skim or almond milk instead of evaporated milk.
• Add veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase fiber and nutrients.

These changes won’t take away from the comforting flavors but will make it a little more guilt-free.

6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole in a crockpot, follow these steps:

1. Brown the ground beef and onions in a skillet as directed.
2. Layer the potatoes, beef, and cheese in a greased slow cooker.
3. Mix together the cheddar soup, evaporated milk, and regular milk, then pour it over the layers.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
5. Sprinkle extra cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

The slow cooker method makes this even easier, especially if you want a hands-off dinner!

7. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Freezing is a great option if you have extra portions. Here’s how to do it properly:

How to Freeze:

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until hot.
• If using a microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I can’t say enough good things about this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone to the table—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner.

Here’s why it’s a keeper:

• Super Easy – Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a foolproof method.
• Incredibly Cheesy & Comforting – Layers of gooey cheese, tender potatoes, and seasoned beef in every bite.
• Feeds a Crowd – This is a hearty meal that makes plenty of servings.
• Budget-Friendly – Made with inexpensive pantry staples.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day (or the day after!).

I hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own! If you try it, let me know in the comments what variations you used or how your family liked it!

Happy cooking!

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