Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole: Your New Family Favorite

Are you looking for a comforting, hearty meal that's both easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser? Look no further than this incredible Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole! This trending recipe is quickly becoming a staple in kitchens everywhere, and for good reason. It combines the satisfying flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese into one delicious, bake-and-serve dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Why You'll Love This Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This recipe isn't just easy; it's also incredibly versatile and budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can create a wholesome and filling meal that tastes like it took hours to make. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies if you're feeling adventurous (we'll give you some ideas later!). Forget complicated steps and lengthy prep times – this casserole is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Let's Get Cooking!

Here's everything you need to know to make your own scrumptious Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Yields: 6-8 servings

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 30-35 minutes

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
4 cups frozen O'Brien potatoes (or diced potatoes), thawed
½ cup sour cream (optional, for creamier texture)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Season and Combine

Add the salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano to the beef mixture, stirring well to combine. Remove from heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. If using, stir in the sour cream now for an extra creamy casserole.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the thawed O'Brien potatoes evenly over the bottom of the dish.

Next, spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the beef. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup) over the top.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 25 minutes. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Add Vegetables: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn, or frozen mixed vegetables to the ground beef mixture for an extra boost of nutrition and color.
Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick if you like a little heat.
Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious.
Creamy Potato Options: Instead of O'Brien potatoes, you can use plain diced frozen potatoes or even thinly sliced fresh potatoes (though fresh potatoes might require a slightly longer baking time).
Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Why This Recipe is Trending

The "Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole" has captured the hearts (and stomachs!) of home cooks because it delivers on taste, convenience, and comfort. It's the kind of meal that brings families to the table and leaves everyone feeling satisfied. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and yields consistently delicious results.

Conclusion

So there you have it – the ultimate guide to making your own Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole. This recipe is a true winner, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors and a comforting texture that's hard to resist. Give it a try this week, and prepare to be amazed at how quickly it becomes a go-to meal for your family!