Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Are you in the mood for a comforting, cheesy, and filling dish that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than this Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe! This savory casserole combines ground beef, hash browns, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures creates a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Read on to learn how to make this delicious casserole, find out how to customize it to your taste, and get tips for serving it perfectly!

What is Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a warm and cozy casserole made with seasoned ground beef, frozen hash browns, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The beef and hash browns are layered in a baking dish, covered with a rich, creamy mixture made from sour cream and cream of mushroom soup, and topped with melty cheese. The result is a golden, bubbly casserole that's comforting, filling, and easy to make.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

To create the ultimate Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – 80/20 ground beef works best for flavor.
• 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns – Shredded or diced, depending on your preference.
• 1 medium onion, diced – For extra flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – To add depth of flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – For a creamy base.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds richness and tang to the dish.
• ½ cup milk – Helps to create a smooth and creamy consistency for the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor to the ground beef.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – To enhance the flavor of the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth to the seasoning.

Ingredients List for Optional Additions

Want to elevate your Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole? Consider adding the following ingredients for a different twist or extra flavor:

• ½ cup frozen peas or corn – Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms – Adds a hearty, earthy flavor.
• 1 diced bell pepper – Provides a bit of crunch and color.
• ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon – For a smoky, salty touch.
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce – To spice things up if you enjoy a little heat.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

• Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
• Soup Substitutes: If you're not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and cream of mushroom soup to make this dish lactose-free.
• Extra Cheese: For a cheesier casserole, mix in different types of cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
• Tater Tot Variation: Swap out the hash browns for tater tots for a crispier, more playful twist on the classic casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a perfect Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

3. Add Onions and Garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.

5. Layer the Casserole

In the prepared baking dish, spread an even layer of the hash browns on the bottom. Top the hash browns with the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour the creamy soup mixture over the beef and spread it evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

6. Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.

7. Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it firm up and make it easier to slice and serve.

How to Cook Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven and prepare the ingredients.
2. Cook the ground beef with onions and garlic.
3. Prepare the creamy sauce.
4. Assemble the casserole by layering hash browns, beef, sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake the casserole until it’s golden and bubbly.
6. Rest the casserole for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole:

• Not Thawing Hash Browns: Be sure to fully thaw your hash browns before using them, or the excess moisture can make your casserole soggy.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the ground beef well with salt, pepper, and other spices. Under-seasoned beef can result in a bland casserole.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. Overbaking can cause the top to become too dry or burnt.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are a few tips to make your Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole stand out:

1. Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish the top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve with a Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the casserole.
3. Make Individual Portions: Use small ramekins to create personal-sized casseroles for a special presentation.

How to Serve Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal in itself, but here are some serving ideas to complement the dish:

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the table, allowing everyone to scoop out their portions.
• With Side Dishes: Pair with a green vegetable like steamed broccoli, a fresh side salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

• Gooey Cheese Top: Ensure the cheese is melted and golden on top for a deliciously tempting look.
• Crispy Finish: For a crunchy topping, add some crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Layer Visibility: When cutting into the casserole, aim to serve in squares that show the clear layers of beef, hash browns, and cheese.

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, pop it in the oven and cook as directed.
• Freeze for Later: Prepare the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Extra Crispy Hash Browns: For a crispier texture, pre-cook the hash browns in a skillet with some oil before layering them in the casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready.

2. Can I freeze Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?

Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

3. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can substitute fresh grated potatoes, but make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture before using them to avoid a soggy casserole.

4. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it with baked beans or cornbread.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining the savory flavors of ground beef with crispy hash browns and a creamy, cheesy topping. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the hearty, cozy flavors of this delicious dish!

Print