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Meta Info

Servings: 6
Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~520
Macros (approx.):
Protein: ~32g | Carbs: ~38g | Fat: ~28g


Intro

Some recipes just feel like home, and this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is one of them. Itโ€™s warm, filling, and layered with everything you crave after a long dayโ€”tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and plenty of melted cheese holding it all together.

This is the kind of dinner that feeds a family, stretches into leftovers, and still tastes just as good the next day. Itโ€™s simple, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying without requiring fancy ingredients or complicated steps.

If youโ€™re looking for a hearty, protein-rich comfort meal thatโ€™s easy to prep and guaranteed to please, this cheesy hamburger casserole earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.


Look at the Recipe

  • Creamy, cheesy layers with tender sliced potatoes
  • High-protein comfort food made with simple pantry staples
  • Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or leftovers

Ingredients Needed

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ยผ-inch rounds
  • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cheddar soup
  • 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
  • ยฝ cup milk
  • ยฝ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Our Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

  1. Preheat the oven.
    Set your oven to 350ยฐF (177ยฐC). Lightly grease a 9ร—13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the beef.
    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat and set aside.
  3. Layer the casserole.
    Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the prepared dish and season lightly with salt and pepper.
    Add one-quarter of the beef mixture, followed by one-quarter of the grated cheddar cheese.
    Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
  4. Prepare the sauce.
    In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed cheddar soup, evaporated milk, milk, and garlic powder until smooth.
  5. Bake.
    Pour the sauce evenly over the casserole. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
    Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
  6. Rest and serve.
    Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets properly.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3โ€“4 days.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
  • Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

Tips & FAQs

Can I use a different protein?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.

Do the potatoes need to be parboiled first?
No. Thin slicing and covered baking allow them to cook perfectly in the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze baked portions tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.


Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is comfort food done rightโ€”simple, filling, and incredibly satisfying. Itโ€™s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds.

Whether youโ€™re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy dinner that delivers on flavor and protein, this casserole checks every box.