Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Cook Beef
In a skillet, sauté the onion and ground beef until meat is browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Slice Potatoes
Peel and cut potatoes into ¼-inch slices.
4. Layer Casserole
-
Place one layer of potatoes in the baking dish.
-
Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
-
Spread ⅓ of the beef mixture over potatoes.
-
Add ⅓ of the shredded cheese.
-
Repeat layers two more times, ending with cheese on top.
5. Make Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together cheddar cheese soup, evaporated milk, and ½ cup milk. Season with extra salt and pepper if desired.
6. Bake
Pour sauce evenly over layered casserole. Cover tightly with foil. Bake 1 hour, then uncover and bake 15 minutes more until cheese is golden. (Bake longer if potato slices are thicker.)
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for balance.
-
Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up all the cheesy sauce.
-
This dish doubles as a holiday side or weekday main.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
-
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
-
Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
-
Add cooked bacon for smoky depth.
-
Mix in frozen peas, corn, or green beans for extra veggies.
Storage Tips
-
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through (this keeps the potatoes from drying out).
-
Freeze before baking: assemble the casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes.
Pro Tips
-
Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
-
Don’t skimp on seasoning between layers—it builds flavor.
-
Let casserole rest 10 minutes before serving to help it set.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Do I have to use cheddar soup?
No—you can use cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, or even make a quick homemade cheese sauce.
What’s the best potato to use?
Yukon Golds are creamy and hold their shape, but Russets also work.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely. This casserole loves cheese. Add extra layers if you’re feeling indulgent.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 8 servings)
-
Calories: 380
-
Protein: 19g
-
Fat: 21g
-
Carbs: 29g
Wrapping It Up
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is proof that the simplest recipes often bring the most joy. It’s hearty, cheesy, and endlessly comforting—perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday spreads.
