When you’re craving comfort food that warms both the heart and the belly, this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole stands out among ground beef recipes for dinner. It’s a dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and ooey-gooey melted cheese into one irresistible casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
A Celebration of Comfort Food
Remember the simple joy of gathering around the table for a homemade meal? This casserole brings that nostalgia back with every bite. It’s designed for busy nights when you want something filling, satisfying, and easy to prepare—all while celebrating the versatility of ground beef.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Here’s everything you need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | Choose your preferred fat level |
| Potatoes | 4 medium | Peeled and cubed |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups shredded | Sharp for a bold, melty flavor |
| Onion | 1 large | Diced |
| Bell Pepper | 1 medium | Diced |
| Milk | 1 cup | Whole or low-fat |
| Cream of Mushroom Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Creates a creamy, binding sauce |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon | For extra flavor |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Essential seasoning |
Step-by-Step Cooking
Browning the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are softened. This step builds the flavor base of your casserole.
Preparing the Potatoes
Meanwhile, peel and cube your potatoes. Parboil them in salted water until they’re just tender. You want them to hold their shape during baking while absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
Assembling the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased casserole dish, layer the parboiled potatoes at the bottom. Spread the browned ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes. In a bowl, combine the milk and cream of mushroom soup (adding garlic powder, salt, and pepper), then pour this mixture over the layers.
Baking to Perfection
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and has a golden crust. Let it rest a few minutes before serving so that the flavors meld perfectly.
Why This Recipe Works for You
This casserole is all about ease and comfort. It’s a complete meal in one dish, where every layer—from the creamy sauce to the melted cheese—brings you that satisfying, homestyle flavor you crave. The versatility of ground beef means you can always tweak the recipe to suit your tastes.
Tips & Variations
- Extra Crunch:
Try adding a breadcrumb topping mixed with a little melted butter for added texture. - Veggie Boost:
Mix in extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a healthier twist. - Cheese Variations:
Experiment with a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
FAQ
Q: What makes this casserole stand out among ground beef recipes for dinner?
A: Its perfect balance of creamy sauce, hearty beef, and melted cheese creates a warm, comforting dish that’s both simple and indulgent.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the cheese topping right before baking to maintain that melty finish.
Q: How can I make it even cheesier?
A: Consider doubling the amount of shredded cheese or stirring some into the beef mixture before assembling.
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is more than just a dinner recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, convenience, and the rich flavors of ground beef recipes. As you dig into each cheesy, hearty bite, you’ll feel the warmth and satisfaction of a well-loved family meal. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the smiles around your table. Don’t forget to share your own creative twists with friends and family. Happy cooking!
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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Hearty Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner Favorite
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
This comforting casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of savory vegetables, all smothered in a rich cheese sauce and baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this hearty dish offers a satisfying twist on classic ground beef recipes that will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb Ground beef (90% lean preferred)
- 1 medium Onion (Diced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1 medium Green bell pepper (Diced optional, for extra color and crunch)
- 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika (For added depth of flavor)
- 1/4 tsp Dried thyme
For the Potatoes & Veggies:
- 4 medium Potatoes (Peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 cup Frozen peas and carrots mix (Thawed slightly)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese (Use a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack if desired)
- 1 cup Milk (Whole milk for richness; adjust for consistency)
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour (To thicken the sauce)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (For seasoning the sauce)
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.
Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the ground beef.
- Once the beef begins to brown, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper (if using).
- Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables have softened.
- Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Stir well and remove from heat.
Prepare the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with a little salt and pepper.
- (Optional: For extra flavor, you can roast the potatoes in the oven for 10 minutes before assembling.)
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly (about 3–4 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Assemble the Casserole:
- In your prepared 9×13-inch dish, evenly spread the browned ground beef mixture.
- Layer the cubed potatoes and thawed peas and carrots evenly over the beef.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the top, then sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil (optional) and bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove the foil in the last 5–10 minutes of baking for a crispier cheese topping if desired.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- To boost the flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of hot sauce when browning the beef.
- Ensure the potatoes are cut evenly so they cook uniformly.
- This casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, hearty meal.
Enjoy your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole—a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner favorite that combines the best of ground beef recipes and cheesy, hearty goodness!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
