Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

What happens when you combine the hearty flavors of a cheeseburger with the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes? You get this Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole—a family-friendly, easy-to-make dish that’s bursting with comforting flavors. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy dill pickles, this casserole takes all the best parts of a cheeseburger and transforms them into a delicious baked dish.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a potluck favorite, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s jump into the recipe!

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing casserole:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes – Use leftovers or make fresh mashed potatoes.
• 1 lb ground beef – The protein-packed base of the casserole.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For a gooey, cheesy topping.
• 1/2 cup diced onion – Adds a hint of sweetness and flavor to the beef.
• 1/4 cup ketchup – Brings that classic cheeseburger tanginess.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and richness to the beef layer.
• 1/4 cup dill pickle slices – Tangy pickles bring a fresh crunch and classic cheeseburger flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavors.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle depth to the beef mixture.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the beef perfectly.

Step-by-Step Directions for Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole

Follow these simple steps to create this comforting, cheeseburger-inspired casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 lb ground beef and 1/2 cup diced onion to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent the casserole from being greasy.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 1/4 cup mayonnaise. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring to combine. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the 4 cups of mashed potatoes evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating the base layer.
2. Evenly distribute the beef mixture over the mashed potatoes, making sure to cover the entire surface.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
4. Garnish the top with 1/4 cup dill pickle slices, arranging them evenly for a pop of tangy flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Drizzle with additional ketchup, if desired, for an extra touch of cheeseburger flavor.
3. Serve warm, paired with a crisp side salad or your favorite vegetables for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and a quick assembly, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The classic flavors of a cheeseburger make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Comforting and Hearty: Creamy mashed potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese combine to create the ultimate comfort food.
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying the next day.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole

• Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This dish is a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. If making them fresh, ensure they’re smooth and creamy.
• Choose the Right Beef: Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If using fattier beef, be sure to drain the fat thoroughly after cooking.
• Customize the Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Adjust the Pickles: If pickles aren’t your favorite, you can leave them out or substitute with chopped fresh tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Variations and Customizations

Add Vegetables

• Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas to add color and extra nutrition.

Make It Low-Carb

• Swap the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower for a low-carb version.

Switch the Sauce

• Replace the ketchup and mayo with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor twist.
• Use mustard or a mix of mustard and ketchup for a tangier profile.

Vegetarian Option

• Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian casserole.

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are some great side options to round out your dinner:

• Side Salad: A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, broccoli, or green beans for a healthy side.
• Dinner Rolls: A warm roll is perfect for soaking up the cheesy layers.
• Sweet Corn: A side of buttery corn complements the savory beef and potatoes beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

4. Can I use a different meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used instead of ground beef.

5. What kind of mashed potatoes should I use?

Any mashed potatoes will work—whether homemade, store-bought, or even instant mashed potatoes. Just make sure they’re smooth and seasoned.

6. Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes! Sprinkle crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or fried onions on top of the cheese layer before baking for added texture.

Conclusion

This Cheeseburger Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, bringing together all the best parts of a cheeseburger in an easy-to-make, family-friendly dish. Creamy mashed potatoes, savory ground beef, melted cheese, and tangy pickles come together in perfect harmony to create a meal that’s satisfying, delicious, and fun to eat. Whether you’re making it for dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Serve it hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger in every bite!

Print