Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature ensures even cooking throughout the casserole layers. While the oven heats, peel your russet potatoes and slice them into uniform ⅛-inch thick rounds—consistency is key for even cooking. A mandoline slicer can be helpful here, but a sharp knife works perfectly. Finely chop your onion, aiming for small, uniform pieces that will distribute evenly throughout the beef mixture.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the beef is completely browned and the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This browning step is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors in your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Drain any excess grease from the skillet—this prevents your casserole from becoming greasy. Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. The paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor while the garlic powder enhances the overall savory profile.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Layers

In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until completely smooth. This mixture will become the creamy base that binds all the layers together in your hamburger potato bake.

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Begin layering your ingredients methodically:

First layer: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an overlapping pattern at the bottom of the dish

Second layer: Spread half of the seasoned beef and onion mixture evenly over the potatoes

Third layer: Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef, ensuring even coverage

Fourth layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the soup mixture

Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of the remaining cheese on top. This layering technique ensures every bite contains the perfect balance of flavors.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This covering is essential for the first part of baking, as it creates a steam environment that helps cook the potatoes evenly and prevents the top from browning too quickly.

Place the covered dish in your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After this initial baking period, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This final uncovered baking time allows the top to turn golden brown and bubbly, creating that irresistible crispy-cheesy top layer that makes this easy hamburger casserole so appealing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to serve clean portions. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the rich, hearty dish. Serve warm and watch as your family gathers around this comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.