Mmm — Hamburger Potato Casserole is pure comfort food: creamy layers of potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce. 🥔🍔 Perfect for weeknights or potlucks!
Here’s a classic from-scratch version (no canned soup needed), plus an easy shortcut option.
🧀 Classic Hamburger Potato Casserole (from scratch)
Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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3–4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon gold or russet work best)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
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½ teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the beef:
In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. -
Make the sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).
Stir in 1 cup cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Assemble:
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
Spread half of the beef mixture on top.
Pour half of the cheese sauce over it.
Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce. -
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake 15–20 minutes more, until bubbly and the potatoes are tender. -
Cool slightly before serving. The sauce thickens as it sits.
Optional Add-ins
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½ cup sour cream or cream of mushroom soup for creamier texture.
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1 cup frozen peas or corn for a veggie boost.
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Top with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for crunch.
🥄 Easy Shortcut Version (with canned soup)
Mix together:
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1 lb browned ground beef
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1 can cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup
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½ cup milk
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Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
Layer with thinly sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish.
Cover and bake at 375°F for 1 hour, then uncover, top with cheese, and bake 15 minutes more.
Would you like me to give you a slow cooker version (great for busy days) or a cheesy loaded version (with bacon and sour cream)?
