Hamburger Meat And Potato Casserole

Name: Hamburger Meat And Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Staples

I absolutely love making Hamburger Meat And Potato Casserole for my family. It brings together tender hamburger meat and fluffy potatoes in a way that’s comforting and satisfying. There's just something about the combination of flavors and textures that makes this dish a winner at our dinner table. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables I have. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough to impress on special occasions.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:33:35.405Z

As I experimented with this Hamburger Meat And Potato Casserole, I wanted to create a dish that was rich enough in flavor yet simple for weeknight cooking. The key here is browning the meat well to develop that deep savory flavor while the potatoes become creamy in the oven. I also like to sneak in a few vegetables for added nutrition.

One tip I learned is to use a combination of fresh and dried herbs; it elevates the overall taste immensely. Not only does this recipe come together quickly, but it also fills the house with the most inviting aroma. My family always looks forward to this dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a family gathering
Easy to prepare with budget-friendly ingredients
Comfort food that brings back childhood memories

The Heart of the Casserole: Meat and Potatoes

The core of this Hamburger Meat and Potato Casserole lies in the combination of ground beef and tender potatoes. The meat should be cooked until browned, allowing the fat to render out, which adds flavor to the dish. Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. The potatoes should be sliced thinly, ideally about 1/8 inch, to ensure they cook evenly and become tender during baking. This creates a delightful contrast between the juicy meat and the creamy, soft potatoes.

In this dish, the potatoes not only complement the beef but also absorb the flavors of the meat and herbs, creating a harmonious blend. For best results, choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, as they hold their shape and have a creamy texture when cooked. If you prefer a bit of crunch and a unique flavor, mixing in sweet potatoes can also offer a delicious twist.

Layering for Flavor

When layering the casserole, the order matters greatly. Start with a base of potatoes, which will absorb moisture from the meat, preventing the bottom from getting soggy. If you want to elevate the flavor, consider seasoning each layer with a pinch of salt and pepper. This technique enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish and ensures that every bite is seasoned well.

Incorporating mixed vegetables isn’t just for added nutrition; they also contribute color and texture, making the casserole more visually appealing. If you have leftover vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, feel free to utilize those as substitutions. Simply chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook thoroughly alongside the other layers.

Topping and Baking Tips

Once your casserole is assembled, the final touch before baking is the creamy sauce. The combination of cream of mushroom soup and milk creates a luscious, smooth consistency that permeates the layers, enhancing moisture. Be sure to whisk them together until fully combined to avoid clumps that could affect the dish's texture. If you want a lighter option, a can of condensed cream of chicken soup works well too.

After baking, it's essential to allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, on top right before serving adds a burst of freshness and color—perfect for impressing your guests!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients as listed for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Meat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Top with the cooked meat mixture and half the mixed vegetables. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and vegetables.

Create the Sauce

In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk together. Pour this sauce over the layered casserole.

Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For a bit of a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red chili flakes to the meat mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Hamburger Meat and Potato Casserole is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the casserole the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. If you do this, you might want to pop it in the oven straight from the fridge and bake it for a bit longer, about 45 minutes, to ensure everything is heated through. Just keep an eye on the top to prevent it from burning.

For storage, the casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until heated through, or microwave for a quicker option.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is filling on its own but can be paired with simple sides for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette contrasts nicely with the richness of the casserole. Additionally, serving it with crusty bread not only helps to mop up the creamy sauce but also adds a homely feel to your dinner table.

For a slight kick, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce. It complements the flavors beautifully and adds a delicious creaminess. If you're looking to impress, a side of roasted vegetables can elevate the meal's presentation and add more nutrition.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter version, while veggie crumbles can work great for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any meat alternatives are fully cooked before layering.

You can also experiment with the cheese on top; while cheddar is a classic, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can give a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can also enhance the dish. For a bit of added crunch, consider sprinkling some breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese before baking for a delightful textural contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes for ground beef.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the day before, cover it, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple side salad or some crusty bread pairs nicely with this dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.