If you’ve been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that simplifies weeknight cooking without skimping on flavor, look no further than this Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe. Picture tender slices of potatoes layered with savory, well-seasoned ground beef, all bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that bubbles with golden perfection. It’s hearty, cheesy, and a total lifesaver for busy evenings when you want something fulfilling and delicious on the table fast. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a family favorite you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two layers of raw ground meat, pink with a stringy texture, stacked neatly on a white speckled plate in the center. Surrounding the plate are various small bowls and dishes: to the top left is a bowl of thick white sour cream, two small beige bowls with paprika and garlic, and another bowl of shredded yellow cheese. To the right, there's a clear measuring cup filled with dark brown broth, and a small bowl with salt and pepper. At the bottom left, there is a bowl of chopped white onions, slices of butter on a speckled dish, and shredded pale cheese in a wooden bowl. To the bottom right, a white plate holds thin circular slices of peeled potatoes with a light brown edge. The items are set on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create a balanced dish bursting with flavor and pleasing textures. Each component plays a crucial role—from the lean ground beef adding savory depth to the mix, to the Greek yogurt in the cream sauce lending just the right amount of tang and silkiness.

2 lbs. ground beef 93% lean 7% fat: Provides a rich, meaty base while staying lean enough to keep the casserole from feeling greasy.
1 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch once softened in the beef mixture.
3 cloves garlic minced: Introduces aromatic warmth to elevate the savory notes.
3 medium Russet potatoes sliced into rounds about 1/4” thick: These tender potatoes soak up the creamy sauce beautifully while their skins give added texture and nutrients.
1 cup mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, stringy layer that complements the cheddar perfectly.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and a wonderful depth of flavor to the topping.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds an umami punch that intensifies the beef’s savoriness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Reinforces the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion’s presence throughout the casserole.
1 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a hint of smoky warmth and gorgeous color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into balance.
For the cream sauce:
1 cup milk (plant-based or whole): Creates the fluid base for a luxuriously creamy texture.
1/2 cup beef broth: Adds an extra layer of savory depth to the sauce.
3/4 cup Greek yogurt: Gives the sauce a tangy richness while keeping it light and velvety.
2 1/2 tbsp butter: Combines with flour to form the roux that thickens the cream sauce.
2 1/2 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce without adding any gluten concerns.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This little prep step ensures cleanup will be a breeze after baking your masterpiece.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet heated over medium, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Once cooked, be sure to drain all excess fat—this is crucial so your casserole doesn’t turn out greasy. Add your chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This mix builds the hearty, savory foundation for the casserole’s flavor.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce Roux

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in gluten-free all-purpose flour to create a smooth paste called a roux. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly add the milk and beef broth while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt to add creaminess and a subtle tang. Season with salt and pepper. If you prefer, you can substitute this homemade roux with a store-bought gluten-free gravy mix, but nothing beats homemade freshness!

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole Layers

Start by arranging half of your potato slices evenly on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Layer half of the cooked beef mixture on top of the potatoes. Pour half of the cream sauce evenly over the beef. Repeat these layers once more with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce. This layering ensures every bite delivers the perfect balance of all components.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the mozzarella and sharp cheddar evenly across the top of the casserole to form a glorious cheesy crust. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain steam and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Finally, remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes to let the cheese melt fully and achieve a bubbly, golden finish that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

A white and blue baking dish filled with a two-layer casserole sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a brown cooked ground meat base mixed with small bits of onions, giving it a slightly chunky texture. The top layer is melted cheese with a golden yellow and white mix, spread evenly over the meat, bubbling with some browned spots. Tiny green herb bits sprinkle both layers adding a fresh contrast. Surrounding the dish are small wooden bowls with shredded white and yellow cheese, and some flat white plates stacked. A striped cloth napkin lies partially under the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness to the casserole’s rich flavors. A few dollops of sour cream or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add contrasting creaminess or heat, personalizing each serving to your taste.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides such as a simple mixed green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted seasonal vegetables to brighten the meal and add texture variety.

Creative Ways to Present

For potluck or family gatherings, serve in individual ramekins for charming single servings. You can also layer the casserole in a clear glass dish so guests can see the beautiful strata of potatoes, beef, and cheese through the side, making it as visually enticing as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making easy weekday lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This casserole freezes quite well. Wrap tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes or until bubbly. Remove foil near the end of reheating to revive the cheesy crust.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are perfect for their starchy texture and perfect layering, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used if you prefer a waxier texture. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free milk and yogurt substitutes, and choose dairy-free cheese varieties to keep the casserole creamy and flavorful without dairy.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh when you’re ready. This makes it a fantastic time-saver for busy days.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

Sour cream or crème fraîche are great substitutes, offering a similar creamy tang. Plain yogurt can work too but try to use the thicker varieties to avoid thinning the sauce.

How do I make sure the casserole isn’t too watery?

Drain all excess fat from the cooked beef and don’t overuse the cream sauce. Also, slicing potatoes to about 1/4 inch thickness helps them cook evenly without releasing too much moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly the kind of dish you want in your recipe collection—simple to make, irresistibly cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, it’s a warm hug on a plate that everyone will ask for seconds of. Give it a try soon and prepare to fall in love with its cozy charm.