This cheesy, delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe is an easy and yummy weeknight family dinner. And you can make the entire dish in advance and simply reheat for an even easier time-saving dinner!
We have the best ground beef casserole your family will love! This cheesy ground beef casserole with potatoes has been an Easter side dish as well as a breakfast brunch item at our house. Try it and see what all the hype is about!
Ingredients
1 pound crumbled ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
3 to 4 pounds of potatoes, peeled and sliced
8 ounces, or more Cheddar Cheese, shredded
1 can Cheddar Cheese soup mix
12 ounces evaporated milk, or whole milk
½ cup milk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
How To Make
Preheat the oven to 350*
Spray a 9×13 baking dish with a non stick cooking spray
In a large skillet, add the onion and ground beef and cook until the meat is done
Slice the potatoes to about ¼” slices
Add one layer of potatoes to the bottom of the baking pan
Sprinkle with salt and pepper
Top with approximately ⅓ of the meat mixture and spread evenly over the potatoes
Sprinkle with ⅓ of the shredded cheese
Repeat this two more times in layers
The last layer should be the remaining cheese
In a bowl, combine the Cheddar cheese soup mix, the milk and the evaporated milk, with optional salt and pepper if desired
Pour the soup mix over the top of the potatoes and beef mixture
Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil and place in the oven
Bake for one hour
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to get a golden topping on the cheese.
If the potatoes are thicker, you will need to bake the dish longer
Variations and Tips
Variations:
Add Vegetables: Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Switch the Cheese: Use a blend of cheeses like Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a different taste.
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a kick.
Use Different Meat: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Creamier Sauce: Mix in sour cream or cream cheese with the soup mixture for an even richer texture.
Tips for the Best Casserole:
Slice the Potatoes Evenly: Ensure all potato slices are the same thickness (¼ inch) so they cook evenly.
Use a Mandoline Slicer: This helps to get uniform potato slices, making the dish cook evenly.
Check for Doneness: If your potatoes are thicker, bake the dish longer until they are fork-tender.
Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
How to Store
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat:
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:
A fresh green salad with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
Garlic bread for a deliciously crispy side.
Pickles or coleslaw to add a tangy balance to the rich, cheesy dish.
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed.
2. How do I prevent the potatoes from turning brown while prepping?
To keep sliced potatoes from browning, soak them in cold water while preparing the other ingredients. Just be sure to drain and pat them dry before layering them in the casserole.
3. Can I use raw ground beef instead of pre-cooked beef?
It’s best to cook the beef first to remove excess grease and ensure even cooking. If you use raw beef, it may release too much liquid, making the casserole soggy.
4. Can I substitute fresh potatoes with frozen or pre-sliced potatoes?
Yes! You can use frozen hashbrowns or pre-sliced potatoes (such as those from the refrigerated section of the grocery store). Just make sure they are thawed before layering.
5. What can I use instead of canned cheddar cheese soup?
If you prefer a homemade version, you can replace the canned soup with:
1 cup heavy cream + ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese + ½ teaspoon garlic powder
A homemade roux using butter, flour, and milk with added cheese.
6. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. If the potatoes are still firm, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
7. Can I freeze this casserole before baking?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
8. Can I add more protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Try adding crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken for extra protein and flavor.
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be customized to your liking! Let me know if you need any more tips.