Hamburger Potato Casserole

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7–8 minutes.
4. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup of milk until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. This will create the rich, creamy base for the casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Arrange a layer of potato slices evenly on the bottom of the dish.
4. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
5. Pour a portion of the creamy mushroom sauce over the beef.
6. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the sauce.
7. Repeat the layers: remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and top with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.
3. Serve hot, straight from the dish, and enjoy the comforting layers of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

• Potato choice: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for baking—they hold their shape and soften perfectly.
• Cheese variations: Add a mix of Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a slightly spicier, creamier casserole.
• Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next day, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food because it hits all the right notes: tender potatoes, savory beef, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but hearty enough to satisfy any appetite. Bonus: it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

If you want, I can also provide a shortcut version using frozen hash browns for an even quicker weeknight dinner version that’s just as tasty.

Do you want me to make that version too?