Hamburger Potato Casserole

Hamburger Potato Casserole

This hearty, comforting casserole layers seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and cheese in a creamy sauce—a complete one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

· 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
· 1 medium onion, chopped
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 4 cups thinly sliced russet potatoes (about 3–4 medium potatoes)
· 1 (10.5 oz / 298g) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery/chicken)
· 1 cup beef broth or milk
· 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
· 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
· 1 tsp paprika
· ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
· ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
· Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Peel and thinly slice potatoes (about ⅛-inch thick). Place in cold water to prevent browning until ready to use.

Step 2: Cook Beef & Aromatics

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
2. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme (if using).

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together condensed soup, broth (or milk), sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Drain potatoes and pat dry. Arrange half the potato slices in the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
3. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Arrange the remaining potatoes over the cheese.
5. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top, shaking the dish gently to let it settle.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50–60 minutes, until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheddar (and Parmesan if using).
3. Return to oven and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

1. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Variations:

· Vegetable Add-ins: Add a layer of thawed frozen peas, corn, or green beans under the cheese.
· Extra Creamy: Substitute ½ cup of the broth with cream cheese, softened.
· Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño to the beef or use Pepper Jack cheese.
· Lightened Up: Use ground turkey, low-fat soup, and Greek yogurt.

Storage & Reheating:

· Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
· Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serves: 6–8

Enjoy this cozy, family-friendly casserole straight from the oven—it’s pure comfort food!