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Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, creamy homemade sauce, and plenty of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. It's an easy family-friendly dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Casserole
  • 1½ pounds lean ground beef
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Cream Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Cheese Topping
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Stir in the garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and beef broth until smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, half of the cream sauce, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
  6. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, cream sauce, remaining cheddar cheese, and finish with the mozzarella cheese.
  7. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and continue baking for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving.

Notes

Slice the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Yukon Gold potatoes can be substituted for a creamier texture.
Add mushrooms, corn, peas, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Let the casserole rest before serving to help the layers hold together.