Delightfully creamy with a golden crust and layers of savory goodness, nothing says “comfort” quite like cheesy hamburger potato casserole. This dish is the ultimate hug in a bowl, combining juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and an irresistible cheese blanket that’ll make your heart sing!

Whenever I whip up this hearty masterpiece, I’m transported back to those cozy family dinners when laughter echoed around the table. It’s the perfect dish for a rainy day or a gathering where you want everyone to leave with a full belly and a smile.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy hamburger potato casserole is a breeze to prepare with simple ingredients
- Its flavor profile combines savory beef with creamy cheese and tender potatoes
- Visually appealing with its bubbling top, it’s sure to impress any crowd
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s a guaranteed hit!
I remember the time my friends devoured this dish faster than I could say “second helping.” Their faces lit up like Christmas morning when they took that first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease; feel free to substitute turkey or even veggie crumbles if desired.
- Potatoes: Opt for russets or Yukon golds; they provide a creamy texture once baked.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds amazing flavor; feel free to mix with mozzarella for extra meltiness.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion works wonders; sauté until translucent for maximum sweetness.
- Garlic Powder: Don’t skimp on this; it amplifies the flavors beautifully.
- Milk: Whole milk offers richness; you can use half-and-half for an extra decadent twist.
- Butter: Stick butter enhances the creamy texture—because who doesn’t love butter?
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste preferences.
- Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking; trust me, you don’t want your masterpiece glued to the pan!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large skillet and spray it lightly with cooking spray. Add your ground beef along with chopped onions. Cook until browned and onions are soft—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once browned, drain any excess fat before seasoning the mixture liberally with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well so every bite bursts with flavor!
Now it’s time to layer your casserole. In a greased baking dish, start by adding half of your sliced potatoes at the bottom. Layer them generously over the beef mixture before pouring half of the milk on top.
Spread half of your shredded cheddar cheese over everything because we all know cheese makes everything better! Repeat these layers once more—potatoes, beef mixture, milk—before finishing off with remaining cheese on top.
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—it should smell heavenly!
Let it cool slightly before serving; this cheesy hamburger potato casserole is best enjoyed warm but can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—if it lasts that long!
You’ve just created a comforting masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every gooey bite of this delightful creation.
You Must Know
- This cheesy hamburger potato casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty flavors and comforting textures
- The melty cheese, tender potatoes, and savory ground beef create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s sure to be a hit!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef while you chop the potatoes. Layer ingredients in the baking dish for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making your cheesy hamburger potato casserole, always season each layer
- This helps build flavor throughout the dish
- Overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes, so keep an eye on them
- Grate your own cheese for better melting and flavor!
Sharing this casserole at family gatherings has led to many happy moments around the dinner table, with everyone asking for seconds!
FAQ
What variations can I make to this cheesy hamburger potato casserole?
You can easily substitute different meats like turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How do I prevent my potatoes from becoming mushy?
Be sure not to overcook them before layering; they should be slightly firm still!

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese into a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and brown the ground beef with chopped onions for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Add half of the beef mixture and pour half of the milk over it. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers: remaining potatoes, beef mixture, milk, and top with remaining cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg