There’s something deeply comforting about a hearty, cheesy casserole straight from the oven, and this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is no exception.
This dish combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, sautéed aromatics, and a homemade cheddar cheese sauce to create a warm, savory, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

Whether you’re looking for a filling family meal or a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole fits the bill. It’s rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to prepare, using everyday ingredients that come together beautifully in the oven.

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, about 4–5 minutes.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a smooth roux. This step helps remove the raw taste of flour.

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture for about 3–4 minutes until it thickens into a creamy sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely. The result should be a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Start with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Spread half of the ground beef and onion mixture over the potatoes. Pour over a generous amount of cheese sauce, covering the layer evenly.

Repeat with another layer of potatoes, the remaining beef mixture, and more cheese sauce. Finish with a final layer of potatoes and a light dusting of paprika on top for a beautiful color when baked.

5. Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

6. Cool and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to settle and makes the dish easier to slice.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm. This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or buttered rolls for a complete meal.