Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until softened. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth and well-blended. This mixture will add creaminess to the casserole.
Layer the Casserole: Begin by placing a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Follow with a layer of the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour a portion of the creamy sauce over the beef. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Potato Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer to achieve uniformly thin potato slices, which will cook evenly.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
Add Veggies: For a nutritional boost, add layers of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it into the oven.