Looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s incredibly easy to make? This 5-ingredient hamburger and potato casserole is the perfect choice! It's a no-fuss dish that combines savory hamburger, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a weeknight dinner or just craving some comfort food, this casserole will hit the spot. Keep reading to discover how you can whip up this delicious dish with minimal effort!

What is a Hamburger & Potato Casserole?

A hamburger and potato casserole is a classic, comforting dish that layers ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce, all baked together to create a hearty, flavorful meal. The combination of beef and potatoes is a tried-and-true favorite, offering a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and rich flavors. This version simplifies the recipe by using only five ingredients, so it’s easy, quick, and budget-friendly, without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients List for Hamburger & Potato Casserole

The beauty of this casserole is in its simplicity. You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge. Here's what you'll need:

Ground beef – 1 lb (lean or regular, based on preference)
Potatoes – 4-5 medium-sized potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
Shredded cheese – 2 cups (cheddar or your favorite blend)
Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped

That’s it! With just these five basic ingredients, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful casserole on your table in no time.

Ingredient Notes:

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is recommended to reduce excess grease, but regular ground beef can work if you drain off any fat after browning. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russet will give the casserole a firmer texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes add a buttery flavor. Both work well in this recipe.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: The condensed soup acts as a sauce, bringing everything together. You can substitute cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor profile.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is the go-to for its sharp flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
Onion: Fresh onions add depth of flavor, but if you're in a rush, onion powder can be used as a substitute.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up or cater the dish to specific tastes? Here are some popular substitutions and variations you can try:

Substitute Ground Beef: If you prefer a leaner or lighter dish, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils, crumbled tofu, or plant-based ground meat.
Different Soup Base: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, feel free to substitute it with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even cheese soup for a richer casserole.
Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content by adding veggies like diced carrots, peas, green beans, or spinach. They add color and extra nutrients while blending perfectly with the beef and potatoes.
Spice it Up: If you like your meals with a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also use spicy shredded cheese to elevate the flavor.
Herbs and Seasonings: For added flavor, try mixing in garlic powder, paprika, thyme, or rosemary with the ground beef as it cooks.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your hamburger and potato casserole.

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will allow the casserole to bake evenly while locking in all those delicious flavors.
Brown the Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain off any excess fat.
Prepare the Potatoes: While the beef is browning, wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Aim for about ¼-inch thick slices to ensure they cook evenly.
Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spread half of the browned ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes. Then, pour half of the cream of mushroom soup over the beef and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup, and cheese.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. After 60 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Rest Before Serving: Once done, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

How to Cook Hamburger & Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the skillet, cook the beef with onions, and drain.
Slice the Potatoes: Thinly slice for even cooking.
Layer the Ingredients: Alternate layers of potatoes, beef, soup, and cheese.
Bake Covered: 60 minutes with foil, 15-20 minutes uncovered.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Foil: Not covering the casserole during the first part of baking can lead to dried-out potatoes or uneven cooking.
Slicing Potatoes Too Thick: If the potatoes are too thick, they may not cook all the way through. Keep the slices at about ¼-inch thick for best results.
Not Draining the Beef: Failing to drain the fat from the cooked beef can make the casserole greasy.
Overcooking the Cheese: Leaving the casserole uncovered for too long can lead to burnt cheese. Keep an eye on it during the final 15-20 minutes of baking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your hamburger and potato casserole is ready, it’s time to serve it up in style! While the dish is hearty and comforting, you can elevate its presentation with a few simple touches.

Serve in Layers: Slice the casserole into squares, so each portion has a clear layer of potatoes, beef, and cheese. This makes it visually appealing and easy to eat.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
Pair with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the casserole.
Offer Sauces: Serve with ketchup, sour cream, or hot sauce on the side for extra flavor options.

How to Serve Hamburger & Potato Casserole

This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can make it more balanced by serving it with:

A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette
Steamed or roasted vegetables (like green beans, broccoli, or carrots)
Dinner rolls or garlic bread for extra comfort

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger & Potato Casserole

Individual Servings: If you're serving guests, cut the casserole into neat squares and place them on individual plates with a garnish of fresh herbs.
Rustic Style: For a more casual family dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the table, letting everyone scoop out their own portion.

Hamburger & Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble this casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply prepare it, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a different flavor profile but work well in this casserole. Just note that they may cook faster than regular potatoes.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A: Simply substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version or make your own using gluten-free ingredients.

Q: Can I add more cheese? A: Yes, if you're a cheese lover, feel free to add extra cheese between layers or on top.

Q: How long will leftovers keep? A: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This easy 5-ingredient hamburger and potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to try out the variations and make it your own. Ready to get started? Grab your ingredients and start cooking this delicious, family-friendly meal today!