Savory Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Food Classic

If you're craving a meal that’s packed with savory goodness, creamy layers, and cheesy perfection, this Hamburger Potato Casserole will satisfy every taste bud. It’s the perfect combination of lean ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese. The creamy mushroom sauce brings everything together into one deliciously comforting dish.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I came across this recipe at Insanely Good Recipes, and after trying it, I knew I had to share it with you! This casserole brings back memories of family dinners, where comfort food was the star of the show. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for a cozy night in.

This dish has deep roots in American comfort food culture. Casseroles became popular in the mid-20th century, celebrated for their simplicity and heartiness. Combining affordable ingredients like potatoes and ground beef, it became a staple in many households. It's a go-to dish when you need something quick, filling, and soul-warming.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2-3 pounds russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup (substitute with cream of celery or cheddar soup if preferred)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions to Make the Casserole:

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef
   Add the ground beef to the skillet, along with the thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook until the beef browns, breaking it up with a wooden spoon into crumbles.
4. Layer the Casserole
   Start by laying a third of the thinly sliced potatoes in your greased baking dish. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture on top, followed by 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Add another layer of potatoes, the rest of the beef, and 1/2 cup of cheese. Finally, top with the last layer of sliced potatoes.
5. Prepare the Sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until it’s smooth. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the casserole, making sure it seeps down into the layers.
6. Bake
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. After the hour has passed, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and continue baking uncovered for another 20-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
7. Let It Rest
   Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, giving the flavors a chance to settle. Then, dig in and enjoy this hearty, savory meal!

Pro Tips for Perfect Casserole:

• Potato Slicing Tip: To ensure even cooking, slice your potatoes as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer can help you get perfectly even slices.
• Add Some Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, top your casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers during the last few minutes of baking.
• Cheese Lovers: If you love cheese, feel free to sprinkle some Parmesan or pepper jack along with the cheddar for a bit of extra flavor.

Variations and Dietary Tips:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup if needed.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap the ground beef for a meatless ground or a hearty vegetable mix like mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Extra Veggies: Add in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutrition and flavor.

Perfect Pairings:

This Hamburger Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. You could also serve it alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Did you enjoy this Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you! If you loved it, don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and follow me for more delicious, comforting dishes.