Southern Hamburger and Potato Casserole

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Southern Hamburger and Potato Casserole: A Classic Comfort Dish for Every Table

Few dishes evoke the feeling of home like a warm, bubbling Southern Hamburger and Potato Casserole fresh out of the oven. This rich, satisfying, and family-friendly casserole is the epitome of down-home Southern comfort food — combining hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese-laden sauce that brings everyone back for seconds.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is a go-to recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

Why This Southern Casserole is a Crowd-Pleaser

This dish has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s:

  • Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
  • Kid-approved and great for picky eaters
  • Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or meal prep
  • Ready to customize with vegetables, spices, or different cheeses

Let’s dive into this classic recipe and explore how to make it perfectly every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare a traditional Southern Hamburger and Potato Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp, depending on your preference)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (for a creamy, savory base)
  • ½ cup milk (to loosen the soup mixture and help everything meld)

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup diced onion for extra flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic or onion powder. If you’re adding diced onions, sauté them with the beef until softened.

Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.

3. Slice the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and thinly slice your potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick). The thinner, the better — this ensures even cooking and a tender texture throughout the casserole.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the ½ cup of milk. Stir until smooth. This will act as the rich, creamy binder for the entire casserole.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Layer the ingredients in the baking dish as follows:

  • First layer: Half of the sliced potatoes
  • Second layer: Half of the cooked ground beef
  • Third layer: Pour and spread half of the soup mixture
  • Repeat layers one more time
  • Top with shredded cheddar cheese

This layered method ensures every bite is packed with flavor, texture, and that crave-worthy cheesy richness.

6. Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.

Then, remove the foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Pro tip: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving — it will thicken slightly and cut into neater portions.

Serving Suggestions

This Southern Hamburger and Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with:

  • Steamed green beans
  • Garden salad with tangy vinaigrette
  • Southern-style cornbread or biscuits

It’s also a complete meal on its own, with protein, starch, and dairy all in one dish.

Tips and Variations

  • Cheese lovers: Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooier texture.
  • Add veggies: Layer in frozen peas, corn, or chopped bell peppers.
  • Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.
  • Lighter version: Substitute ground turkey and low-fat cheese.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers are even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

  • Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes
  • Or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through

This dish also freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Why This Casserole Belongs in Your Recipe Box

This Southern classic hits all the marks:

  • Comforting and satisfying
  • Simple ingredients, easy prep
  • Customizable and freezer-friendly

In a world of complicated recipes and exotic ingredients, the humble hamburger and potato casserole reminds us that sometimes, the best meals are also the simplest.

So the next time you need a hearty dish that brings people together, reach for this beloved Southern recipe. Your family will thank you.

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