There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy dish that brings everyone together. The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is just that—a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re coming home after a long day or hosting friends for game night, this casserole is a quick solution that satisfies. With layers of ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar, it’s a dish that impresses without demanding hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you serve this up, your loved ones will be asking for seconds, and maybe even thirds!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just an hour from start to finish. The combination of savory ground beef and creamy potatoes creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how it brings comfort and satisfaction to the table without breaking a sweat!
Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef: The star of the show, providing rich flavor and protein.
Onion: Diced for sweetness and depth, it enhances the overall taste.
Garlic: Minced to add a punch of flavor that complements the beef.
Frozen diced potatoes: Convenient and quick, they save you time on prep.
Sharp cheddar cheese: This is what makes it cheesy! It melts beautifully and adds a tangy kick.
Cream of celery soup: A creamy base that binds everything together, adding moisture and flavor.
Whole milk: For extra creaminess, it helps create a luscious texture.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, it brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Freshly ground for a hint of spice that balances the richness.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish.
Dried oregano: A touch of herbaceous flavor that complements the beef.
Plain Greek yogurt: For creaminess and a slight tang, it’s a healthier alternative to sour cream.
Chives (optional): Chopped for a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and flavor.
For those looking to mix things up, consider swapping the cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom or chicken. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Creating this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the cheese melt perfectly.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is fully cooked and the onion turns translucent. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for keeping your casserole from becoming too greasy!
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the browned beef mixture with frozen diced potatoes, cream of celery soup, whole milk, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and Greek yogurt. Mix until everything is well combined. This is where the magic happens, as all those flavors meld together!
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Now, transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. A good even spread helps with cooking consistency.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Don’t be shy—this is what makes it cheesy and delicious! The more, the merrier!
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This helps the casserole cook through while keeping it moist. You’ll want to keep that cheesy goodness intact!
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful melted and bubbly cheese with a golden hue. It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for!
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle. Optionally, sprinkle chopped chives over the top for a fresh touch before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole!
Tips for Success
Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the casserole lighter.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the casserole hold its shape.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or corn.
For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Make it ahead of time and refrigerate; just bake when ready to serve!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick option works great for browning the beef.
Mixing bowl: Any size will do, just ensure it’s big enough for all the ingredients.
9×13 inch baking dish: A glass or metal dish is perfect for even cooking.
Foil: To cover the casserole while baking.
Spatula: For mixing and serving the casserole.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a hearty vegetarian version.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Low-Carb Version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative that still satisfies.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
Drink Pairing: A cold beer or a glass of iced tea complements the flavors perfectly.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs about Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you’re not a fan of cream of celery soup, feel free to swap it out for cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup. Each option brings its own unique flavor to the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers! Just let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It should keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. You can also mix in some hot sauce for an extra kick. Your taste buds will thank you!
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! The Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that any canned soups or ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in, sparking conversations and laughter. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish brings comfort and joy to the table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
A comforting and cheesy casserole made with ground beef, potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups frozen diced potatoes
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of celery soup
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup chopped chives (optional for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked and the onion is translucent. Drain off any excess grease.
In a separate bowl, mix together the browned beef mixture, frozen diced potatoes, cream of celery soup, milk, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and Greek yogurt until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden hue.
Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle chopped chives over the top before serving.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Swap the cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom or cream of chicken for a different taste experience.
