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Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
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Craving a comfort meal? This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is the perfect cheesy, hearty dish for busy weeknights. With savory beef, crispy hash browns, and melty cheese, this easy stovetop recipe will become a family favorite. Ready in under an hour, it's a deliciously simple way to satisfy those comfort food cravings
This casserole recipe is easy to make, and you can follow the guide below for step-by-step photos and directions. We include pro tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time. Plus, we answer the most frequently asked questions to make this American dinner idea stress-free.
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Whip up this Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole in just under an hour for a quick and tasty dinner. The crispy hash browns, savory beef, and gooey cheese make it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a casual get-together with friends. This recipe stands out because it combines hearty flavors with a satisfying crunch that everyone will love. Don’t miss out on making this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a go-to favorite!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole recipe:
- 2 pounds of lean ground beef
- ¾ cup of finely chopped sweet yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 (10.5-ounce or 298-gram) can of cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
- ⅔ cup of sour cream
- ⅔ cup of half and half
- 1½ teaspoons of kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 (30-ounce or 850-gram) package of thawed frozen hash browns
- 3 cups of freshly shredded mild cheddar cheese (divided in half)
Pro Tip
Grate your own cheese for the best meltability and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the texture.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your hashbrown casserole with ground beef by swapping out ingredients and adding tasty extras! These simple changes can make your casserole uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, yet still savory, version of this casserole.
- Substitute Hash Browns: Swap hash browns with tater tots or sweet potato fries for a fun twist on texture and flavor.
- Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to pack in extra flavor and nutrition.
- Substitute Cheddar Cheese: Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy kick.
How to Make Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and the tips and tricks listed below. Let’s get started on this delicious Hamburger Hash Brown Potatoes Casserole! You’ll love how easy it is to make and how tasty the results are.
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Generously spray a 9×13 (or 13×9) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
SECOND STEP: Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and garlic to a ten to 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook for five to six minutes, stirring often, or until the ground beef is cooked through and no longer pink. Drain any excess oil.
THIRD STEP: Transfer the cooked onion and ground beef mixture to a large heat-proof bowl.
FOURTH STEP: Add the undiluted cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half and half, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, onion powder, and cracked black pepper to a medium bowl.
Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
FIFTH STEP: Add the thawed frozen hash browns to the ground beef. Pour the soup mixture over the hash browns and ground beef. Stir to combine.
Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheese to the ground beef and hash browns.
Pro Tip
Adding the hash browns and soup mixture first will help cool the mixture down before adding the cheese.
SIXTH STEP: Evenly spoon the ground beef and hash brown mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Bake, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the hash browns begin to turn golden brown. Remove the baking dish from the oven.
Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Bake for an additional three to five minutes or until the cheese is melted. Serve while hot.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your casserole as the suggested baking time approaches.
How to Serve Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this dish always impresses. Here are some fun ways to serve this tasty recipe:
- Family Dinners: Serve this casserole for an easy weeknight meal that everyone will love. Kids especially enjoy the cheesy, crispy layers. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced dinner.
- Potlucks and Parties: This casserole shines at potlucks and parties. It’s hearty, easy to transport, and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve alongside a side of garlic bread or a fresh fruit salad for a complete spread.
- Comfort Food Cravings: Perfect for chilly fall or winter evenings, this dish warms you up from the inside out. Enjoy it with a bowl of tomato soup or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Why You'll Love This Hamburger Hash Brown Recipe
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole isn’t just another dish—it's a cherished favorite for several delicious reasons:
- A Hearty, Comforting Classic: This recipe combines savory beef, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheese into one satisfying, hearty dish. Every bite delivers that perfect comfort food experience, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Kids love the cheesy, crispy layers, while adults appreciate the rich, savory flavors. It’s a dish that pleases everyone at the table, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Quick and Easy to Make: Ready in under an hour, this casserole is ideal for those busy days when you want a tasty, homemade meal without the hassle. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.
Ground beef and hash brown casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s a family favorite that brings comfort and joy to any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
Can I prepare Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?
To reduce greasiness, drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef before mixing it with other ingredients.
What’s the best way to get a crispy top on my casserole?
For a crispy top, bake the casserole uncovered and add an extra sprinkle of cheese during the last 10 minutes.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown, and the center is hot and bubbling, usually around 45 minutes.
Serving FAQ
How many people does Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole serve?
This casserole typically serves 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.
What’s the best way to serve Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture. Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Can I serve this casserole for brunch?
Yes, this casserole works great for brunch. Its hearty ingredients make it a satisfying option for a late-morning meal.
How do I keep the casserole warm for serving?
To keep the casserole warm, cover it with foil and place it in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of this Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered.
Can I prepare Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the day before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What’s the best way to store leftover Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I freeze Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to two months.
How do I thaw and reheat frozen Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
Thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly, usually 20-30 minutes.
Can I reheat Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole in the microwave?
Yes, microwave leftovers in 1-minute intervals until heated through, but be careful not to overcook it.
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- ¾ cup sweet yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (298 gram undiluted)
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- ⅔ cup half and half
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 30 ounces thawed frozen hashbrowns (850 gram)
- 3 cups freshly shredded mild cheddar cheese (divided in half)
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Generously spray a 9×13 (or 13×9) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and garlic to a 10 to 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring often, or until the ground beef is cooked through and no longer pink. Drain any excess oil.
- Transfer the cooked ground beef and onion mixture to a large heat-proof bowl (4 to 5 quarts).
- Add the undiluted cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half and half, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, onion powder, and cracked black pepper to a medium-sized mixing bowl (2 to 3 quarts). Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the thawed frozen hash browns to the ground beef. Pour the soup mixture over the hash browns and ground beef. Stir to combine. Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded cheese to the ground beef and hash browns.
- Evenly spoon the ground beef and hash brown mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 45 to 50 minutes or until the hash browns begin to turn golden brown. Remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Serve while hot.
Notes
- Grate your own cheese for the best meltability and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the texture.
- Adding the hash browns and soup mixture first will help cool the mixture down before adding the cheese.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your casserole as the suggested baking time approaches.
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