Name: Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (85-90% lean); 4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), thinly sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Sour cream, for serving (optional); Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

When I need a cozy, comforting meal that pleases everyone at the table, Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole is one of my go-to dishes. It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly simple to throw together. I love how the layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese meld into a dish that feels like home. And the best part? It uses ingredients I almost always have on hand.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for a family gathering, this casserole is a winner. It’s versatile too — you can easily adjust it to your taste or what you’ve got in the fridge. Let me show you why this casserole has become such a favorite in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This casserole hits the sweet spot of comfort food: rich, flavorful, and filling without being complicated. I especially appreciate that it requires just a handful of pantry staples — ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and a few seasonings. You don’t need to spend hours prepping or follow complicated steps.

I also love how customizable it is. You can add veggies, swap in different cheeses, or adjust the seasoning to suit your family’s preferences. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers — the flavors seem to deepen overnight. If you enjoy dishes that bring warmth to the table and smiles to your loved ones, this recipe is sure to deliver.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

When it comes to choosing potatoes for this casserole, I find that starchy or all-purpose varieties work best. Russet potatoes are my personal favorite — they bake up tender and absorb the flavors of the beef and seasonings beautifully. If you prefer a slightly creamier texture, Yukon Golds are another great choice. They hold their shape well and add a rich, buttery flavor to the dish.

Waxy potatoes, like red potatoes, can also work, but they won’t become as soft and melded as starchy varieties. No matter which kind you choose, be sure to slice them thinly and evenly so they cook at the same rate as the other layers.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how flexible it is. Over the years, I’ve experimented with many variations depending on what I have in the fridge or pantry. Here are some easy swaps you can try:

Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a lighter version.
Sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes add a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.
Cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup can be stirred into the beef for a creamier, richer casserole.
Add a layer of sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and texture.
Swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different cheese profile.
For a gluten-free version, just be sure to use gluten-free seasoning and soup (if adding).

Feel free to get creative — this is one of those forgiving recipes that welcomes a personal touch.

Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ground Beef

This is the heart of the casserole. I like to use lean ground beef so the dish isn’t too greasy, but still packed with flavor. It gives the casserole its rich, savory base.

Potatoes

Sliced thinly, potatoes provide the structure and comfort of the dish. They absorb the beef juices and seasoning, becoming perfectly tender.

Onion

Adding diced onion to the beef brings a sweet, aromatic depth to the casserole. It rounds out the savory flavor.

Garlic

A touch of minced garlic elevates the flavor of the beef and adds that delicious homemade taste.

Salt and Pepper

Basic seasoning that enhances every layer of the casserole. I season both the beef and the potatoes.

Paprika

A little smoked paprika adds warmth and subtle smokiness to the dish.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Melted, gooey cheddar forms a golden top layer and brings everything together. I use sharp cheddar for a punchy flavor.

Sour Cream (optional, for topping)

A dollop of sour cream on top adds cool, creamy contrast to each bite — totally optional but highly recommended!

Chopped Green Onions (optional garnish)

A sprinkle of green onions gives the finished casserole a pop of color and a fresh bite.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, peel your potatoes and slice them thinly — about 1/8-inch thick works well. Dice your onion and mince the garlic. Shred the cheddar cheese if you haven’t done so already.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef. As it begins to brown, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping them. Spoon half of the seasoned ground beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.

Repeat with another layer of potatoes and the remaining beef mixture. Finish with a final layer of potatoes on top.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top layer of potatoes. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, removing the foil during the last 10-15 minutes so the cheese can melt and turn golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve

Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions, if desired. Enjoy!

How Long to Cook Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

The casserole typically bakes in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 50-60 minutes. Keeping it covered with foil for the first part of baking allows the potatoes to soften and cook through evenly. During the final 10-15 minutes, removing the foil helps the cheese melt beautifully and develop that irresistible golden top.

You’ll know the casserole is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crisp.

Tips for Perfect Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

Slice the potatoes thin and uniform — about 1/8 inch thick. This ensures they cook fully and evenly.
Drain the beef well after browning to avoid a greasy casserole.
Season as you go. Lightly season each layer of potatoes to enhance their flavor.
Use freshly shredded cheese if possible — it melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
Rest the casserole for 10 minutes before slicing to help it hold together.
If you like a creamy version, consider mixing a can of cream of mushroom or cheddar soup with the beef before layering.
For a little kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Potatoes too thick: If your potato slices are too thick, they may not cook through in the allotted time. Keep them around 1/8 inch thick for tender, evenly cooked layers.
Not draining the beef: Leaving excess fat in the skillet can lead to a greasy casserole. Always drain well after browning.
Under-seasoning: Potatoes soak up flavor — be sure to season each layer lightly with salt and pepper.
Skipping the foil: If you don’t cover the dish at first, the cheese might brown too quickly while the potatoes remain undercooked.
Cutting too soon: Cutting into the casserole right after baking can make it fall apart. Resting allows it to set nicely.

What to Serve With Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole?

This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with lighter sides rounds out the meal. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments:

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette brightens the plate.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add a colorful and healthy touch.

Steamed Green Beans

Tossed with a little butter and garlic, they make a classic side.

Coleslaw

A creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds crunch and contrast.

Garlic Bread

For carb-lovers, a slice of warm garlic bread is always welcome.

Pickles or Pickled Vegetables

Their acidity cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Sautéed Spinach

A quick sauté with garlic balances the meal with greens.

Fresh Fruit Salad

For a refreshing finish, serve a bowl of fresh seasonal fruit.

Storage Instructions

One of the reasons I love this casserole is how well it stores — it’s perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.

Refrigerator:
Once cooled, cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
You can also freeze the casserole. I recommend slicing it into portions first. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

To reheat:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes for a full dish or 5-10 minutes for smaller portions).

Estimated Nutrition

Please note that exact values will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes, but here’s an approximate nutrition estimate per serving (assuming the recipe makes about 6 servings):

Calories: ~400-450 kcal
Protein: ~25-30 grams
Fat: ~25 grams
Carbohydrates: ~20-25 grams
Fiber: ~2-3 grams
Sugars: ~2 grams
Sodium: ~600-700 mg

This dish is rich in protein and satisfying, with moderate carbs from the potatoes. You can easily adjust the fat and calorie content by using leaner meat or lighter cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of ground beef works best?

I recommend lean ground beef (85-90% lean) — it provides great flavor without making the casserole greasy. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional! If using Russet potatoes, I prefer to peel them for a softer texture. If using Yukon Gold or red potatoes, you can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden. Test the potatoes in the center to be sure.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes — it freezes beautifully! Cool completely, portion, wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight before baking.

What other cheese can I use?

I love sharp cheddar, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Swiss, or a blend all work well. Use what you love or have on hand.

How can I make it creamier?

For a creamier casserole, mix in cream of mushroom, cream of cheddar, or cream of chicken soup with the beef before layering.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

It can be! The basic version is naturally gluten-free if you avoid any soup mix-ins with gluten. Just check all labels if using canned soups or seasoning blends.

Conclusion

I truly love making this Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole — it’s the kind of simple, hearty meal that brings comfort to any table. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the many possible variations, it’s sure to become a family favorite. And with its flexibility for prep, storage, and serving, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!