Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

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Introduction

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food meal — hearty, creamy, and satisfyingly rich. Built from simple kitchen staples like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, this dish is a warming family favorite perfect for weeknights, holidays, or potlucks. Its layered structure delivers flavor in every bite, making it a cozy classic that never disappoints.

Origin

This casserole has roots in mid-20th-century American home cooking, when economical, filling dishes became popular in households across the United States. With budget-friendly ingredients and easy preparation, casseroles quickly became staples in both rural and suburban kitchens. Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole evolved as a comforting blend of meat-and-potato traditions, reflecting practicality and homestyle ingenuity.

Cultural Significance

Casseroles represent togetherness and simplicity. They embody the tradition of gathering around the table, sharing one dish that feeds everyone. This casserole, in particular, mirrors the essence of community — whether it appears at church gatherings, holiday buffets, family reunions, or weeknight dinners, it symbolizes hearty nourishment and family connection.

Ingredients & Quantities

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3–4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 large potatoes)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional for greasing)

Optional Additions

  • 1 cup frozen peas or corn for extra texture
  • ½ cup sour cream for creamier sauce
  • Jalapeños or chili flakes for heat
  • Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or chives
  • A crunchy topping (crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or fried onions)

Tips for Success

  • Slice potatoes thinly (⅛–¼ inch) so they cook evenly.
  • Brown beef fully and drain liquid to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Cover with foil for the first half of baking to prevent cheese from burning.
  • Let the casserole rest 10–15 minutes after baking for perfect slicing.
  • Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly butter or spray a baking dish.
  3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  5. In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
  6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
  7. Spoon half of the soup mixture over the potatoes.
  8. Add half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half the cheese.
  9. Repeat the layers: potatoes → soup mixture → beef → cheese.
  10. Cover with foil and bake 50–60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  11. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes to brown the top.
  12. Let rest before serving.

Description

The finished casserole is warm, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. The potatoes absorb the savory flavors of beef and spices, while the top forms a golden, bubbly cheese crust. Each forkful offers a comforting blend of textures — soft potatoes, juicy beef, and rich, velvety sauce.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 420–480
  • Protein: 22–26 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28–32 g
  • Fat: 25–30 g
  • Fiber: 2–3 g
  • Sodium: 720–880 mg

Nutritional values vary based on ingredients used.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole brings together simplicity, nostalgia, and bold comfort-food flavor in one satisfying dish. It’s adaptable, affordable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping a cozy meal at home.

Recommendation

Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm dinner rolls to create a complete and balanced meal. For a lighter version, you can use lean beef, low-sodium soup, or part-skim cheese.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoying indulgent dishes like this casserole can be part of a balanced lifestyle when paired with moderation and mindful ingredients. Add vegetables, choose lighter dairy options, or pair with wholesome sides to keep the meal comforting yet nourishing. Savor the warmth without sacrificing well-being.

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