Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

If you’re in search of a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, crispy hashbrowns, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, look no further than Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole. This easy-to-make recipe is a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting family and friends. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender hashbrowns, and melted cheese creates a flavorful dish that is both filling and delicious. With its minimal prep and simple ingredients, you’ll want to add this casserole to your regular dinner rotation. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to make this satisfying meal!

this Recipe

What is Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is a savory, all-in-one meal that layers ground beef with hashbrowns, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a combination of a classic hamburger casserole and a breakfast-style hashbrown dish, making it a versatile choice for any meal of the day. This casserole can be customized with your favorite veggies or seasonings, and it’s sure to become a household favorite due to its comforting and hearty nature.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef works best, but any ground beef will do.
• Frozen Hashbrowns (30 oz bag): Use shredded or diced hashbrowns depending on your texture preference. Be sure to thaw them before use.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall flavor.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Provides a creamy base for the casserole. You can also substitute with cream of chicken soup.
• Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and tanginess to the dish.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully and adds that cheesy goodness.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): To sauté the onions and add richness to the casserole.
• Milk (½ cup): Helps thin the sauce to a smooth consistency.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): For seasoning the beef and hashbrowns.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild heat to balance the flavors.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a hint of smokiness and color to the dish.
• Green Onions (for garnish): Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh, subtle bite.

Optional Ingredients:

• Bacon (½ cup, cooked and crumbled): Adds a smoky, crispy element to the casserole.
• Bell Peppers (1 cup, diced): For extra crunch and sweetness.
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Adds earthiness and more texture.
• Jalapeños (¼ cup, diced): If you like a bit of heat in your casserole.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1 cup): For added nutrition and color.

Substitutions and Variations

The great thing about Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is its versatility. You can make this dish your own by trying different variations and substitutions. Here are a few ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The flavors will still be rich and delicious.
• Tater Tots: Use tater tots instead of hashbrowns for a fun twist on the classic recipe. The tots will add a bit of extra crunch.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, feel free to use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead.
• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, substitute the hashbrowns with cauliflower hashbrowns or use diced roasted cauliflower.
• Vegetarian Version: Leave out the ground beef and add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. You could also use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spicy Version: If you enjoy some heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole? Follow these easy steps to get this dish from your kitchen to the dinner table in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly and develops a delicious golden crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease and remove it from the heat.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, add the thawed hashbrowns and the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour the creamy soup and cheese mixture over the hashbrowns and beef, and stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the hashbrown and beef mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that perfect, cheesy crust.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and the hashbrowns are cooked through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes to firm up before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Cook Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ground beef with onions and garlic, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, then drain the excess fat.
3. Mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese to make the creamy sauce.
4. Combine the thawed hashbrowns, cooked beef mixture, and creamy sauce.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before garnishing with green onions and serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Thawing Hashbrowns: If you use frozen hashbrowns without thawing, they can release extra moisture into the casserole, making it soggy. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dish.
• Overcooking the Ground Beef: Don’t overcook the ground beef, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Browning it just until it’s no longer pink is enough.
• Under-seasoning: The casserole relies on seasoning, so be sure to taste and season your beef and potato mixture well. The cream sauce can mellow flavors, so a good balance of seasoning is essential.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it firm up, making it easier to serve and giving the flavors time to meld together.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is already a complete meal in itself, but you can elevate the presentation and balance out the richness by serving it with complementary sides:

• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the casserole with roasted veggies like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts to add color and a lighter option on the plate.
• Bread: Soft dinner rolls or garlic bread pair well with the hearty nature of the casserole, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

How to Serve Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Here are a few simple ways to serve Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

• Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the center of the table. Let everyone scoop their own portions.
• Individual Ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes.
• Topped with Extra Garnishes: Before serving, you can top each plate with a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for an added touch of flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Looking to elevate your casserole's presentation? Here are some ideas:

• Rustic Cast-Iron Skillet: If you’re looking for a rustic, homestyle presentation, consider baking and serving the casserole directly in a cast-iron skillet.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs, extra cheese, or crispy bacon crumbles can make the casserole look more visually appealing.
• Layering for Color: To create layers of color, you can alternate the beef and hashbrown mixture with other veggies or cheeses.

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven for a hassle-free dinner.
• Freezing: Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole freezes well. You can freeze it unbaked or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
A: Yes, you can grate fresh potatoes and use them in place of frozen hashbrowns. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the casserole.

Q: Can I freeze Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. You can assemble and freeze it before baking or freeze leftovers after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly before freezing.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?
A: Ensure that your sauce mixture (cream of mushroom, sour cream, and milk) is well combined and spread evenly throughout the casserole. You can also cover the casserole with foil during baking to keep it moist, uncovering it for the last 10-15 minutes for a crispy top.

Conclusion

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, crispy hashbrowns, and melty cheese into one delicious dish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something to serve at your next family gathering, this casserole is sure to please. Its versatility allows for endless customizations, and the simple ingredients make it a go-to recipe for busy days. Follow the recipe tips and serving suggestions to create a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!

Print