Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Irresistible Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe for Dinner

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mouthwatering hamburger hash brown casserole that combines hearty ground beef and crispy potatoes.

Layers of golden hash browns create a delicious foundation for savory seasoned meat.

Melted cheese blankets the entire dish, promising a truly satisfying meal.

Each forkful brings together classic flavors that remind you of home-cooked goodness.

The casserole delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Packed with protein and potatoes, this one-pan wonder delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Gather around the table and prepare for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Directions for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Cooking Space

Warm up your oven to a cozy 350°F.

Grab a large skillet and casserole dish for your culinary adventure.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Meat Base

Brown your ground beef in the skillet with these seasonings:
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Sauté chopped onions until they become soft and translucent.

Step 3: Mix Hearty Casserole Ingredients

Combine these delicious components in a large mixing bowl:
  • Cooked beef and onion mixture
  • Frozen hash browns
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Sour cream
  • Whole milk
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (reserve half for topping)

Stir everything until well blended.

Step 4: Assemble Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a generously greased casserole dish.

Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping

Optional crispy layer: Mix crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with melted butter.

Scatter evenly over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven.

Bake for 45 minutes until the top turns golden and edges bubble.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Enjoy your comforting meal!

Tips for Crispy Hash Brown Casserole

  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika to the ground beef for an extra flavor kick.
  • Pat the frozen hash browns dry with paper towels before mixing to reduce excess moisture and ensure a crispy texture.
  • Swap full-fat ingredients with low-fat alternatives like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.
  • Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and cornflakes to make this dish celiac-friendly without compromising taste.
  • Sneak in diced bell peppers or spinach while sautéing onions to increase nutritional value and add color to the casserole.

Hash Brown Casserole Add-In Ideas

  • Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Spicy Southwest Kick: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and chili powder to the beef mixture. Top with pepper jack cheese for an extra zesty flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace hash browns with riced cauliflower or cauliflower hash browns to reduce carbohydrate content. Keep all other ingredients the same for a lighter option.

Serving Hash Brown Hamburger Casserole

  • Hearty Family Feast: Serve this casserole as a complete meal with a crisp side salad to balance the rich, comforting flavors.
  • Brunch Brilliance: Transform this dish into a weekend brunch star by pairing it with sunny-side-up eggs and fresh fruit for a satisfying morning spread.
  • Game Day Delight: Cut into smaller squares and serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer during sports gatherings or potluck parties, garnished with extra green onions.
  • Veggie Companion: Add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to bring freshness and nutritional balance to this hearty casserole.

Storage for Hamburger Hash Brown Bake

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.
  • Wrap casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil to prevent drying, bake 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for last 5 minutes to crisp top.
  • Place individual portion on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let stand 1-2 minutes before serving.

FAQs

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, kids typically love this casserole because it combines ground beef, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese, creating a comfort food that’s both tasty and satisfying.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean protein substitute that works perfectly in this recipe and provides a similar flavor profile.

  • Do I need to thaw the hash browns before using?

No, you can use frozen hash browns directly from the package without thawing, which makes the recipe even more convenient and quick to prepare.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Try using low-fat cheese, lean ground beef or turkey, reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup, and adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value.

Hash Browns Meet Hamburger Casserole

  • Whip Up Comfort: A hearty one-dish meal that combines classic beef and potato flavors for ultimate satisfaction.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Convenience: Perfect for busy families, this casserole requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor with simple ingredients.
  • Quick Meal Solution: Transforms basic pantry staples into a delicious dinner that feeds multiple people without complicated cooking techniques.
  • Kid-Friendly Delight: Cheesy, meaty, and packed with familiar tastes that children and adults will both enjoy without fuss.

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Ingredients

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base that provides the primary protein for the casserole.
Potato Base:
  • Frozen Hash Browns: Convenient potato shreds that create a crispy and substantial foundation for the casserole.
Dairy and Creamy Components:
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup, Sour Cream, Milk: These ingredients blend together to create a rich and creamy texture that binds the casserole.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, melty cheese flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: These spices provide depth and balanced seasoning to the beef and casserole.
  • Chopped Onions: Adds a sweet and aromatic base flavor to the ground beef.
Optional Topping:
  • Crushed Cornflakes or Breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy and golden exterior when combined with melted butter.
Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil or Butter: Used for sautéing onions and adding richness to the dish.
Optional Garnish:
  • Green Onions or Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright finish to the casserole.
Print
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Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe


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4.7 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty hamburger hash brown casserole, blending savory ground beef with crispy potato layers. Melted cheese and creamy sauce unite classic ingredients, creating a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef

Potatoes and Cheese:

  • 1 bag (30 ounces/850 grams) frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1 can (10.5 ounces/298 grams) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F, ensuring an even cooking environment for the casserole.
  2. In a large skillet, caramelize onions with olive oil until translucent, then introduce ground beef and cook thoroughly, developing rich, deep flavors through seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Create the casserole base by combining the savory beef mixture with crisp frozen hash browns, creamy mushroom soup, tangy sour cream, and milk, integrating half of the cheddar cheese for additional richness.
  4. Transfer the mixed ingredients into a well-greased casserole dish, distributing evenly to ensure consistent texture throughout.
  5. Enhance the casserole’s texture by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese across the surface, creating a melted, golden blanket.
  6. Optional: Craft a crunchy topping by mixing crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then delicately scatter over the cheese layer for added crispness.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, watching for a golden-brown surface and bubbling edges that indicate complete cooking.
  8. Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to rest briefly, then garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based crumbles for a healthier protein option that cuts down on saturated fat.
  • Enhance dairy-free requirements by using coconut milk, vegan cheese alternatives, and dairy-free cream of mushroom soup substitute.
  • Create a crispy top layer by mixing panko breadcrumbs with herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra texture and flavor complexity.
  • Prep casserole components ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, allowing flavors to meld and simplifying weeknight meal preparation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 449 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 562 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 88 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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