This 50-minute cheesy hamburger casserole combines rich layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy potato soup, and scalloped potatoes into one delicious, comforting dish.
Finished with crispy bacon and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying dinner that pleases both picky eaters and hearty appetites alike.
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Ingredients
Ground beef – The savory base of the casserole, browned and seasoned to bring a rich, meaty depth.
Onion – Finely chopped and sautéed with the beef, it adds aromatic sweetness and a soft texture.
Cream of potato soup – Blended into the beef mixture, it creates a creamy, velvety consistency throughout.
Scalloped potatoes (boxed) – A tender, starchy layer that absorbs the casserole’s flavors beautifully while providing structure.
Seasoning packet (from the boxed potatoes) – Offers classic seasoning that enhances the overall taste with minimal effort.
Shredded cheese – Melts to form a gooey, golden topping; use cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for best results.
Bacon – Cooked until crisp and sprinkled on top, it delivers a smoky crunch that elevates every bite.
Seasonings of choice – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika can enhance the beef and potato layers to your liking.
Recipe Instructions
Start by browning the ground beef with onions and your chosen seasonings, then stir in the cream of potato soup.
Layer uncooked scalloped potatoes in a baking dish, then top with the beef mixture and prepared sauce packet.
Bake, add bacon and cheese, and finish in the oven until bubbly and golden.
Recipe Tips
For extra richness, stir a handful of shredded cheese into the beef mixture before layering. To enhance the bacon’s flavor, use thick-cut slices and don’t skip draining for a crisp texture. If you prefer softer potatoes, cover the casserole for the first 20 minutes, then uncover to finish.
Storing
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap portions in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of boxed scalloped potatoes?
Yes, but slice them very thin and pre-cook them slightly to ensure they soften properly during baking.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is a favorite for its sharpness, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend also melt beautifully and taste great.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Is there a substitute for cream of potato soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, though the flavor will be slightly different.
50-Minute Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 can cream of potato soup
- Shredded cheese to your preference
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 box scalloped potatoes including seasoning packet
- 1 onion finely chopped
- Pack of bacon
- Seasonings of choice e.g., salt, pepper, garlic powder
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat along with chopped onions and your selected seasonings. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the cream of potato soup until evenly combined with the beef mixture.
- In a 13×9 inch baking dish, arrange the dry scalloped potatoes in an even layer at the base.
- Prepare the sauce packet from the scalloped potatoes box according to the instructions on the packaging.
- Pour the beef and cream mixture evenly over the layer of uncooked potatoes.
- Drizzle the prepared sauce mixture across the top of the casserole contents.
- Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
- While the casserole bakes, dice the bacon and cook it in a skillet until crispy, then set aside on a paper towel to drain.
- After 25 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and scatter the cooked bacon pieces and shredded cheese across the surface.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese has melted thoroughly.