Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Looking for a meal that combines the savory goodness of ground beef with the crispy, cheesy flavor of hashbrowns? Look no further than this Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe! This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Packed with ground beef, creamy sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to make this comforting casserole, plus tips for substitutions, variations, and serving ideas!

What is Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is a savory baked dish that combines seasoned ground beef, crispy hashbrowns, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The hashbrowns form a crispy base or topping, while the beef is mixed with onions, garlic, and a flavorful cream sauce. The result is a golden, bubbly, and comforting casserole that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to please.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

To make a delicious Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – Choose 80% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat.
• 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns – Shredded or diced, depending on your preference.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the ground beef.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a fragrant and savory flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – For a creamy base.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds richness and a slight tang.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts perfectly into the casserole, adding cheesy goodness.
• ½ cup milk – Helps thin the cream of mushroom soup for a smoother consistency.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra kick of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Boosts the savory taste of the casserole.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory depth to the ground beef.

Ingredients List for Optional Additions

For some added variety or nutrition, consider adding these ingredients to your Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

• ½ cup frozen peas or corn – Adds sweetness and color to the dish.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – For a touch of crunch and extra flavor.
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled – For a smoky, crispy addition.
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms – Adds an earthy, umami flavor to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat.

Substitutions and Variations

This Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is extremely versatile. Here are some substitutions and variations to tailor it to your tastes or dietary preferences:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground "meat" or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheese alternatives to make the dish dairy-free.
• Tater Tot Topping: For a variation on the classic, use tater tots instead of hashbrowns. This gives a crispy, golden topping that’s a hit with kids.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Extra Cheese: Mix different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for added creaminess and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a perfect Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
3. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Hashbrowns: If using frozen hashbrowns, make sure they are fully thawed before using. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
5. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the hashbrowns evenly along the bottom. Top with the cooked ground beef mixture, spreading it evenly. Pour the cream sauce over the beef, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Finally, top with the remaining hashbrowns.
7. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
8. Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to scoop out portions.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to cook Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

1. Brown the beef with onions and garlic.
2. Prepare the sauce by mixing the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk.
3. Layer the hashbrowns, beef mixture, and sauce in a baking dish.
4. Top with cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not Thawing Hashbrowns: Using frozen hashbrowns without thawing them will result in excess moisture, making the casserole soggy. Always thaw and dry them before use.
• Under-Seasoning the Beef: The ground beef mixture is the base of the dish, so be sure to season it well with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
• Skipping the Cheese: Cheese not only adds flavor but also helps to bind the casserole together. Don’t skimp on the cheese for the best results.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. If it cooks for too long, the hashbrowns may become too dry or burnt.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving your Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole, a few thoughtful presentation ideas can elevate this simple dish:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives can add a bright, fresh flavor to the rich casserole.
2. Serve with a Salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect side to balance out the richness of the dish.
3. Use Individual Casserole Dishes: For a special presentation, portion the casserole into small individual baking dishes or ramekins. This gives each person their own personal serving, and it looks great on the table.
4. Drizzle with Sour Cream: For extra indulgence, drizzle a bit of sour cream over the top of each serving. You can also offer ketchup or hot sauce on the side for those who like a bit of spice.

How to Serve Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

This dish is so hearty that it can stand alone, but here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the center of the table. Let guests scoop out their desired portions.
• Plated: For a more formal presentation, plate individual portions alongside a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

• Crispy Topping: To make the casserole visually appealing, ensure the top is golden brown and crispy. You can even add some extra cheese or a breadcrumb topping halfway through baking.
• Layered Look: When cutting into the casserole, aim for clean slices to showcase the layers of beef, sauce, and hashbrowns.
• Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with sour cream, diced scallions, hot sauce, and salsa for added flavor and customization.

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinner prep even easier!
• Freeze for Later: You can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Use Fresh Hashbrowns: If you have time, try using freshly grated potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns for an even better texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient dish for meal prep or hosting gatherings.

2. Can I freeze Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?

Absolutely! After assembling the casserole (but before baking), cover it with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

3. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or even a side of roasted broccoli for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with garlic bread or dinner rolls.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions.

5. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, you can grate fresh potatoes if you prefer. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the casserole.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you're serving it to your family or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that can be customized with your favorite add-ins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy, delicious flavors it has to offer!

Print