Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food Favorite
“My mom found the recipe in the paper. I love this dish at LongHorn’s, and I was so excited to try it at home!”
If you’re in search of a hearty, satisfying dish that brings warmth to the dinner table, look no further than Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. This recipe beautifully combines tender slices of potato, savory ground beef, sautéed aromatics, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce—creating a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Whether served as a main course or a hearty side, this casserole is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Thinly sliced potatoes | 4 cups |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This aromatic base adds depth to the casserole’s flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking it for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens—about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar until fully melted.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread half of the cooked beef, followed by half of the onion-garlic mixture. Pour a generous layer of cheese sauce over the top.
Repeat the layers: potatoes, seasoned beef, onion and garlic, cheese sauce. Finish with a final layer of potatoes and a light dusting of salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Every bite offers a comforting blend of seasoned beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that feels like home. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, it delivers on taste, texture, and nostalgia. It’s a timeless recipe—made even more special when passed down through generations.
