The Best Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe for a Hearty Meal

Hamburger potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best hamburger potato casserole, including:

• Which potatoes work best for a creamy or firm texture
• Step-by-step instructions for layering and baking
• Variations like cowboy casserole and John Wayne casserole
• Tips for storage and reheating

Plus, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about this dish, such as whether to cook the potatoes or ground beef first and why some people call it a John Wayne casserole.

Let’s get started with this delicious, satisfying, and foolproof hamburger potato casserole recipe!

What Is Hamburger Potato Casserole?

A Comforting and Hearty Dish

Hamburger potato casserole is a classic American comfort food that combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a warm and satisfying meal. Made with layers of seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is baked to golden perfection, making it a favorite among families.

Unlike traditional casseroles that rely on pasta or rice, this recipe uses thinly sliced or diced potatoes, which absorb the flavors of the beef and sauce while baking. The result? A rich, cheesy, and filling dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.

Why This Recipe Is So Popular

There’s a reason why hamburger potato casserole has stood the test of time—it’s simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile. Here’s why people love it:

✅ Easy to Make – Just layer the ingredients and bake! No complicated steps required.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses inexpensive pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese.
✅ Customizable – Add vegetables, swap cheeses, or season it to your taste.
✅ One-Pan Meal – Everything bakes in a single dish, reducing cleanup time.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.

Hamburger Potato Casserole vs. Other Casseroles

This dish is often compared to other classic casseroles, but it has its own unique characteristics:

Ingredients Needed for Hamburger Potato Casserole

To make the best hamburger potato casserole, you need simple, wholesome ingredients that come together for a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

• Ground Beef – Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to avoid excess grease while still keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
• Potatoes – The right potatoes can make or break your casserole. Choose russet potatoes for a soft, creamy texture or Yukon Gold for a firmer bite.
• Cheese – A blend of cheddar and mozzarella adds the perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness. Feel free to use Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
• Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup – This creates a rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together. You can substitute with homemade béchamel sauce for a fresher taste.
• Milk or Heavy Cream – Adds extra creaminess to the sauce.
• Onions & Garlic – These aromatics enhance the depth of flavor in the beef.
• Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme provide a well-rounded taste.

If you’re a fan of potato-based dishes, you might enjoy making the scalloped potatoes of Paula Deen, another comforting classic that brings a rich and creamy texture to the table.

Optional Add-ins

Want to customize your casserole? Try these delicious add-ins:

• Bacon Bits – Adds a smoky crunch to every bite.
• Veggies – Green beans, corn, peas, or bell peppers add color and texture.
• Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers – Sprinkle on top for a crispy golden crust.
• Sour Cream – Mix into the sauce for extra tanginess and richness.

If you love cheesy dishes, Michael Symon’s scalloped potatoes trick could be a great inspiration for adding a cheesy, golden-brown finish to your casserole.

Best Cheese for Hamburger Potato Casserole

The right cheese can take your casserole to the next level. Here are some great options:

Choosing the Best Potatoes for Casseroles

The type of potatoes you use in hamburger potato casserole can affect its texture, creaminess, and overall success. Some potatoes soften and blend into the casserole, while others hold their shape for a firmer bite.

What Potatoes Work Best in Casseroles?

Here’s a breakdown of the best potatoes to use based on your texture preference:

• For a creamy texture, use russet potatoes. Their high starch content allows them to break down and absorb flavors.
• For a firm texture, opt for Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which hold their shape better.

Should You Peel the Potatoes?

• Peeling: If you want a smooth, soft texture, peeling the potatoes is recommended.
• Leaving the Skin On: If you prefer a rustic, firmer bite, leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.

Slicing vs. Dicing: Which Is Better?

• Thin Slices: Cooking time is more even, and the casserole has a layered, scalloped texture.
• Diced Cubes: More chunkiness and bite, but may require a longer baking time.

For the best hamburger potato casserole, use thinly sliced Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for even cooking and a rich, creamy result.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hamburger Potato Casserole

Now that we have all the ingredients and the best potatoes selected, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making the perfect hamburger potato casserole.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
• Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Stir in diced onions, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.

✔ Tip: If you’re adding extra veggies (like bell peppers or mushrooms), sauté them with the beef.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

• Wash and peel the potatoes (optional).
• Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thin rounds.
• If dicing, cut them into small cubes (about ½ inch thick) for even cooking.

✔ Tip: If slicing ahead of time, soak potatoes in cold water for 10-15 minutes to prevent browning. Pat them dry before layering.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup of milk or heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon of salt & black pepper

✔ Tip: Want a richer taste? Add ½ cup of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Layer the ingredients in the baking dish as follows:

1️⃣ First Layer: Half of the sliced potatoes
2️⃣ Second Layer: Half of the cooked ground beef mixture
3️⃣ Third Layer: Half of the shredded cheese
4️⃣ Fourth Layer: Repeat the potatoes, beef, and cheese layers
5️⃣ Final Step: Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the top

✔ Tip: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crispy golden crust.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 15-20 more minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Insert a fork into the potatoes to check for tenderness. If they’re soft, your casserole is ready!

✔ Tip: If the top isn’t browned enough, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 7: Let It Rest & Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for extra flavor.

✔ Tip: Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies for a complete meal. If you’re looking for ways to improve your potato-based dishes, check out how to add more flavor to scalloped potatoes for inspiration.

What Is Cowboy Casserole?

If you love hamburger potato casserole, you might also enjoy cowboy casserole—a fun and flavorful twist on the classic dish. This variation swaps traditional potatoes for crispy tater tots and adds a Tex-Mex flair with bold seasonings and extra toppings.

Cowboy Casserole vs. Hamburger Potato Casserole

While both dishes include ground beef, cheese, and a creamy sauce, cowboy casserole has a distinct Southwestern-inspired twist:

✔ Main Difference: Cowboy casserole uses tater tots instead of fresh potatoes and has a bolder, Tex-Mex-inspired taste, but both share the hearty, cheesy goodness of hamburger potato casserole.

Ingredients for Cowboy Casserole

To make cowboy casserole, you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt & pepper to taste

✔ Optional Add-ins: Black beans, chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or crumbled bacon for extra texture and flavor.

How to Make Cowboy Casserole

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef – Brown the beef in a skillet, then drain excess grease. Add onions, garlic, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.

3️⃣ Prepare the Sauce – In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.

4️⃣ Layer the Ingredients:

• Spread cooked ground beef at the bottom of the dish.
• Add corn and Rotel tomatoes on top.
• Pour the creamy sauce evenly over everything.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.
• Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer.

5️⃣ Bake the Casserole – Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes until golden brown.

6️⃣ Let It Rest & Serve – Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes, then dig in!

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Casserole

✅ Crispy Tater Tot Topping – Adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy layers.
✅ Southwestern Flavor – Taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes give it a mild kick.
✅ Quick & Easy – No slicing potatoes—just dump, layer, and bake!
✅ Kid-Friendly – Kids love tater tots, making this a family favorite.
✅ A Fun Alternative to Hamburger Potato Casserole – It offers a different texture while keeping the same delicious flavors.

While cowboy casserole is a flavorful spin on hamburger potato casserole, another variation is John Wayne Casserole—a dish with a rich history. Let’s dive into its origins and what makes it unique!

Why Is It Called a John Wayne Casserole?

One variation of hamburger potato casserole is the John Wayne casserole, a hearty dish with a Southwestern twist. But where did it get its name?

The Story Behind John Wayne Casserole

This dish was named after the legendary Hollywood actor John Wayne, famous for his roles in classic Western films. The recipe first appeared in a 1985 fundraising cookbook for the American Cancer Society, where John Wayne himself contributed the recipe.

Unlike traditional hamburger potato casserole, this version features a biscuit or cornbread crust, spicy flavors, and a unique layering method.

What Makes John Wayne Casserole Different from Hamburger Potato Casserole?

✔ Main Difference: John Wayne casserole has a flaky biscuit base, Tex-Mex flavors, and a creamy, cheesy beef topping, whereas hamburger potato casserole is made with layers of potatoes.

Ingredients for John Wayne Casserole

To make John Wayne casserole, you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade biscuit mix)
• Salt & pepper to taste

✔ Optional Add-ins: Black beans, crumbled bacon, or extra jalapeños for more spice.

How to Make John Wayne Casserole

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2️⃣ Prepare the Biscuit Crust –

• Press the biscuit dough into the bottom of the dish to form an even layer.
• Bake for 5-7 minutes until slightly golden (it will finish cooking later).

3️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef –

• Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat and drain excess grease.
• Stir in onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Add Rotel tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.

4️⃣ Mix the Creamy Layer – In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

5️⃣ Assemble the Casserole –

• Spread the cooked beef mixture over the biscuit crust.
• Pour the creamy mixture evenly on top.
• Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.

6️⃣ Bake the Casserole – Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

7️⃣ Let It Rest & Serve – Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Why You’ll Love John Wayne Casserole

✅ Bold Southwestern Flavor – The jalapeños and taco seasoning add a mild kick.
✅ Flaky Biscuit Crust – Gives the casserole a unique texture compared to hamburger potato casserole.
✅ Creamy & Cheesy Layers – Sour cream and cheddar cheese create a rich, delicious topping.
✅ Great for Parties & Potlucks – This dish feeds a crowd and reheats well.

If you love Southwestern flavors and cheesy, hearty casseroles, John Wayne casserole is a must-try!

Storage & Reheating Tips

One of the best things about hamburger potato casserole is that it stores well and tastes just as good—if not better—the next day. Whether you’re making it ahead for meal prep or saving leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat it properly.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator Storage

• Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

✔ Tip: If storing in the original baking dish, use press-and-seal wrap to keep it airtight.

Freezer Storage

• For long-term storage, freeze individual portions or the entire casserole.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

✔ Tip: If freezing a whole, unbaked casserole, assemble it without baking and freeze. Thaw overnight before baking.

How to Reheat Hamburger Potato Casserole

Oven Method (Best for Even Heating)

1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Place casserole in an oven-safe dish (if not already in one).
3️⃣ Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
4️⃣ Bake for 15-20 minutes (or 30-40 minutes if frozen).
5️⃣ Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to re-crisp the cheese topping.

✔ Best for: Large portions or whole casseroles.

Microwave Method (Quickest Option)

1️⃣ Place a single portion on a microwave-safe plate.
2️⃣ Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
3️⃣ Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4️⃣ Check the center for warmth and continue heating in 30-second intervals if needed.

✔ Best for: Quick individual servings.

Skillet Method (Best for Crispy Texture)

1️⃣ Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add a small amount of butter or oil.
3️⃣ Place a serving of casserole in the pan and cover with a lid.
4️⃣ Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping once for even warming.

✔ Best for: Keeping potatoes crisp while reheating.

Can You Make Hamburger Potato Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! If you want to save time, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to do it:

• Follow the recipe up to the layering step.
• Cover tightly and refrigerate.
• When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

✔ Tip: Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge. Looking for more delicious casserole recipes and cooking inspiration? Follow us on Pinterest!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help you make the best hamburger potato casserole, here are answers to some of the most common questions about this dish.

1. Do you cook potatoes or ground beef first?

You should cook the ground beef first to remove excess grease and enhance its flavor before layering it with the potatoes. The potatoes go in raw because they will cook while baking in the oven. Thinly slicing them ensures they become tender and soak up the creamy sauce.

✔ Tip: If using diced potatoes, consider parboiling them for 5-7 minutes before assembling the casserole to speed up cooking time.

2. What is cowboy casserole?

Cowboy casserole is a variation of hamburger potato casserole that uses tater tots instead of sliced or diced potatoes. It also typically includes:

• Taco seasoning for a bold, Southwestern taste
• Rotel tomatoes and green chilies for extra flavor
• Corn or black beans for texture
• A crispy tater tot topping with melted cheese

This casserole is a great option if you love Tex-Mex flavors and a crunchy topping!

3. What potatoes are best in a casserole?

The best potatoes depend on your desired texture:

✔ Best Choice: Russet potatoes for a soft and creamy casserole, or Yukon Gold if you prefer them to hold their shape.

4. How can I make hamburger potato casserole healthier?

If you want a lighter version, try these healthy swaps:

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for leaner protein.
• Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk for a lighter sauce.
• Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
• Reduce cheese or use a lower-fat cheese alternative.
• Swap cream of mushroom soup for a homemade sauce using flour, broth, and milk.

✔ Tip: You can also use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a nutrient boost!

Conclusion

Hamburger potato casserole is the perfect comfort food—a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and customize. Whether you stick with the classic hamburger potato casserole recipe, try a Tex-Mex-inspired cowboy casserole, or go for the John Wayne casserole with a biscuit crust, this dish is a family favorite that never disappoints.

By choosing the right potatoes, layering the ingredients properly, and using the best reheating methods, you can enjoy a delicious, creamy, and cheesy hamburger potato casserole every time. Plus, with make-ahead and storage tips, this dish is ideal for meal prep and busy weeknights.

Looking for more comforting recipes? Check out MrChefRecipes.com for more delicious meal ideas, including more ways to enjoy hamburger potato casserole!

Hamburger Potato Casserole

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• Author: Mr.Chef
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Hamburger Potato Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, savory sauce, it’s comfort food at its best! The melted cheddar cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch, making this an easy and satisfying meal for busy weeknights. Serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and delicious dinner!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup (240ml) milk or heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Optional: ½ cup sour cream for extra creaminess

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Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prep:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2️⃣ Cook the Beef:

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (5-7 minutes).
• Add onions, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well.
• Drain excess grease and set aside.

3️⃣ Prepare the Potatoes:

• Wash and thinly slice the potatoes (about ¼-inch thick).

4️⃣ Mix the Creamy Sauce:

• In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk.

5️⃣ Assemble the Layers:

• Layer 1: Half the sliced potatoes.
• Layer 2: Half the cooked beef mixture.
• Layer 3: Half the shredded cheese.
• Layer 4: Repeat layers.
• Final Step: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over everything.

6️⃣ Bake:

• Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:

• Let rest for 5-10 minutes, then serve hot!
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for extra flavor.

Notes

🥄 Storage & Reheating Tips:

✅ Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
✅ Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
✅ Reheat in Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
✅ Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

🔥 Pro Tips:

✅ For extra crunch, top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
✅ Want a richer sauce? Add ½ cup sour cream to the soup mixture.
✅ Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture or russet potatoes for a softer bite.
✅ Pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course, Comfort Food
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 of the casserole)
• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: Hamburger Potato Casserole