When I first made this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole, I wasn’t expecting it to become such a repeat request from my family. But after that first bite—where the creamy layers of potato, savory ground beef, melted cheddar, and that touch of tangy sour cream came together—it was clear I had stumbled on a serious comfort food winner. It’s one of those dishes that makes everyone sit down and stay at the table a little longer.

What I love most about this casserole is how budget-friendly and easy it is. It uses pantry staples and everyday ingredients but turns them into something hearty and deeply satisfying. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or making sure we have leftovers for the next day, this dish checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This recipe is a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and simplicity. You’ll love it because:

It’s incredibly filling and makes great leftovers.
You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just the basics.
It’s family-friendly and picky-eater approved.
It layers and bakes beautifully in one dish—easy prep and cleanup.
The customizable nature makes it a go-to for any busy weeknight.

What Kind of Potatoes Work Best in Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

When it comes to building a sturdy and flavorful base for this casserole, I’ve found that Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice. They hold their shape well when cooked and have a naturally buttery taste that pairs beautifully with the seasoned ground beef. Russet potatoes can also be used if you prefer a fluffier texture, but they tend to break down a little more.

If you’re after a more rustic finish, red potatoes with their thin skin can be a good option. They don’t need peeling, which speeds things up, but keep in mind they have a slightly waxier bite.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re missing an ingredient or want to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary needs, this casserole is incredibly forgiving. Here are some helpful substitutions:

Ground Beef: You can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils if you’re aiming for a vegetarian option.
Cheddar Cheese: Try Colby Jack, mozzarella for extra meltiness, or pepper jack if you want some spice.
Potatoes: As mentioned, Yukon Golds are ideal, but russets, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes can be used.
Cream Soup (if used): Some versions call for a can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup—feel free to use a homemade white sauce or even Greek yogurt with seasoning for a lighter option.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt works well here too and adds a similar tang.
Onions: Red, yellow, or sweet onions all work, or skip them if you prefer milder flavors.

Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a specific role in making it comforting, hearty, and full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Ground Beef: This is the protein base of the casserole. It adds richness and savory depth that binds the whole dish together.
Potatoes: The starchy foundation—sliced potatoes add bulk and soak up all the meaty juices while holding the layers intact.
Onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic flavor that enhances the beef.
Cheddar Cheese: Brings creaminess and that irresistible melted topping. Sharp cheddar gives a nice bite, but milder versions are fine too.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the beef and potatoes.
Garlic Powder (optional): A subtle way to deepen the flavor profile.
Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup (optional): Adds a creamy layer and helps hold everything together. Great for a more indulgent version.
Sour Cream: A dollop on top brings a cool, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the warm, cheesy casserole.
Green Onions (for garnish): These add a fresh, vibrant finish and a hint of crunch.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, peel and slice your potatoes into thin rounds—about 1/8-inch thick for even cooking. Dice your onion and shred the cheddar cheese if it isn’t pre-shredded.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Add the diced onion and sauté together until the onion is softened and fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Drain off any excess grease.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with a single layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom. Add a layer of the cooked beef and onion mixture on top. If using cream soup, spread a thin layer over the beef. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Top the final layer of potatoes with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Press down slightly to settle the layers and help the cheese grip everything underneath.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through without the cheese burning.

Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling and the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions just before serving.

How Long to Cook Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

The total cook time for this casserole is about 80–85 minutes:

Covered Baking: 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to ensure the potatoes soften evenly and absorb the meat’s juices.
Uncovered Baking: An additional 20–25 minutes to melt and brown the cheese topping.

After baking, let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle and makes it easier to slice and serve neatly.

Tips for Perfect Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Slice Potatoes Evenly: Thin, even slices (about 1/8 inch) ensure they cook through properly. A mandoline can help if you want precision.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper, especially on the potatoes, since they can absorb a lot of flavor.
Use Sharp Cheddar: It adds more flavor and a deeper color to the topping.
Drain the Beef: Removing excess grease from the cooked ground beef prevents a greasy casserole.
Test Doneness with a Fork: Stick a fork into the center to check if the potatoes are tender before removing from the oven.
Let it Rest: Resting after baking helps the layers firm up, so the casserole doesn’t fall apart when served.
Make Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the entire dish a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a straightforward dish like this casserole has a few pitfalls. Here’s what to watch out for:

Using raw, thick-cut potatoes: Thick slices won’t cook through properly and can stay hard in the center. Always aim for thin, even slices.
Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoned layers can make the dish bland. Season the beef and sprinkle a little salt between the potato layers.
Not draining the beef: Excess grease can lead to an oily casserole. Always drain after browning.
Overbaking uncovered: Baking uncovered for too long can dry out the casserole or burn the cheese. Stick to the covered/uncovered times for best results.
Using watery or low-fat cheese: This can affect melting and flavor. Go for full-fat cheddar for richness and texture.
Cutting too soon: Cutting into it right after baking can make the casserole fall apart. Resting for 10 minutes is crucial for structure.

What to Serve With Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh or lighter sides to balance its richness. Here are my top picks:

Green Salad

A simple garden salad with vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness.

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed or roasted broccoli brings in a bright, earthy note.

Garlic Bread

A slice of crusty, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy casserole perfectly.

Pickles or Pickled Vegetables

The acidity from pickles cuts through the richness in a refreshing way.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn makes a cheerful, summery contrast and is always crowd-pleasing.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Light and juicy, this salad refreshes your palate between creamy bites.

Applesauce

It might sound surprising, but the subtle sweetness of applesauce offers a delightful counterpoint.

Storage Instructions

One of the great things about Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is how well it stores for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container or tightly covered baking dish. It will last 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions or the whole casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. For larger portions, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

Estimated Nutrition

Please note, values can vary slightly depending on substitutions or brand variations. Here’s an estimate per serving (assuming 8 servings total):

Calories: 420
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Calcium: 180mg
Iron: 3mg

This casserole is a good source of protein and calcium, with hearty carbs and satisfying fats to keep you full and fueled.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a few hours ahead or even the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake when ready. You may need to add an extra 10–15 minutes to the bake time if it’s going in cold.

2. Can I use frozen potatoes or hash browns instead of fresh?

You can. Frozen hash browns (thawed) work in a pinch and make the prep quicker. Just be sure to layer them evenly and check doneness.

3. What if I don’t have cream soup?

No problem. You can make a quick white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, or use a little sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with broth for a lighter alternative.

4. Is this casserole gluten-free?

Not by default, especially if you’re using canned soup. But it can be! Use gluten-free soup or homemade sauce, and make sure any packaged ingredients (like cheese) are labeled gluten-free.

5. Can I add vegetables to the mix?

Absolutely! Try adding frozen peas, carrots, corn, or even sautéed mushrooms between the layers for more nutrition and flavor.

6. Can I use another meat besides beef?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat crumbles work great as substitutes for ground beef.

7. How do I keep the cheese from burning?

Make sure to bake the casserole covered for the first hour. Only uncover it for the last 20–25 minutes to melt and brown the cheese.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Use a larger roasting pan or two baking dishes. Just keep in mind that a thicker casserole may need a bit more time in the oven.

Conclusion

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate—hearty, warm, and completely satisfying. It’s a dependable go-to for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or anytime you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. With easy steps, simple ingredients, and tons of room for customization, it’s no wonder this recipe has earned a spot in my regular rotation.

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Author: Ava Garrison
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 80 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting dish, Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole layers seasoned ground beef, thin-sliced potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese into a baked casserole that’s simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 small onion, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (optional)
½ cup sour cream
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drain excess fat.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.
Spread half of the beef and onion mixture over the potatoes. If using soup, spread a thin layer over the beef.
Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and potatoes are tender.
Let rest 10 minutes. Garnish with sour cream and chopped green onions before serving.