My grandma literally calls this dish 'crack'

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that remind me of family dinners growing up in the Midwest. It's hearty, filling, and perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying. This casserole combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese into a dish that's sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover potatoes you might have. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to bring to a potluck, this casserole is a winner.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra cheesy goodness. If you're feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top adds a nice touch.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cups sliced potatoes (about 3-4 medium potatoes)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.

While the beef is cooking, slice the potatoes thinly. You can use a mandoline for even slices if you have one.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Spread half of the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.

Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef and potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.

Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

For a bit of spice, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add more veggies, consider layering in some sliced bell peppers or mushrooms. For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat cheese.