Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for an easy, hearty, and delicious dinner idea, this Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a must-try! Combining the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, crispy hash browns, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, making ahead for busy weeknights, or even bringing to potlucks. Read on for the full recipe, including step-by-step instructions, substitutions, variations, and tips for serving a delicious Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole that your family will love.

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What is Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that layers ground beef, hash browns, cheese, and a creamy, savory sauce. This casserole is typically baked until the hash browns are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The result is a filling, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or for meal prepping, this casserole is easy to make and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

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Ingredients List for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother and faster.

Basic Ingredients:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Lean ground beef is preferable, but any ground beef will work.
2. Frozen Hash Browns (1 package, about 30 oz) – Shredded or diced hash browns work well for this recipe.
3. Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – This forms the base of the creamy sauce. Cream of chicken or celery also works.
4. Sour Cream (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and tang to the casserole.
5. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Sharp cheddar gives a rich, cheesy flavor.
6. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and flavor to the ground beef.
7. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic flavor to the beef.
8. Butter (2 tablespoons) – Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
9. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – For seasoning the beef and sauce.
10. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds a deep, savory flavor to the beef mixture.
11. Milk (½ cup) – Helps to thin out the soup for a smoother, creamy sauce.

Optional Ingredients:

1. Mixed Vegetables (1 cup) – Frozen peas, carrots, or corn can add extra nutrition and color.
2. Green Bell Pepper (1, diced) – For added flavor and texture.
3. Paprika (½ teaspoon) – Adds a smoky depth to the dish.
4. Breadcrumbs (½ cup) – For a crispy topping if desired.

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Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to customize the recipe according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

Substitutions:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.
2. Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery instead.
3. Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative that still adds creaminess.
4. Gluten-Free Version: Ensure that all your ingredients, especially the soup, are gluten-free. You can also add gluten-free breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.

Variations:

1. Cheesy Loaded Casserole: Add bacon bits, chives, and extra cheese to turn this into a loaded hash brown casserole.
2. Tex-Mex Version: Add taco seasoning to the beef, use pepper jack cheese, and mix in black beans and corn for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with salsa and sour cream.
3. Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or mushrooms. You can also load up on vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and spinach.
4. Breakfast Casserole: Add scrambled eggs and swap out ground beef for sausage to make this a delicious breakfast or brunch casserole.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to cook? Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole.

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Drain any excess fat from the skillet once the beef is cooked through.

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If you're including any mixed vegetables or bell peppers, fold them into the sauce mixture at this stage.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom. Pour the ground beef mixture over the hash browns, spreading it evenly. Next, spread the creamy sauce mixture over the beef. Finally, add the remaining hash browns on top of the sauce layer.

5. Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer of hash browns. If you want extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping.

6. Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

7. Let It Rest:

Once the casserole is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut into neat portions.

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

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F and prepare your baking dish.
2. Cook Beef: Brown the ground beef with onions, garlic, and seasoning.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheese for a creamy layer.
4. Layer the Ingredients: Layer hash browns, beef, sauce, and cheese in your baking dish.
5. Bake: Bake until golden and bubbly, then let it rest before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Beef: Excess fat can make your casserole greasy. Be sure to drain the fat after cooking the beef.
• Undercooking the Hash Browns: If the hash browns are not crispy, it could make the casserole soggy. Make sure they bake long enough to get golden brown and crispy.
• Overloading with Vegetables: While veggies add nutrition, too many watery vegetables (like zucchini or mushrooms) can make the casserole watery. Be sure to sauté them before adding if using these veggies.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Resting the casserole after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This casserole is a casual, family-friendly dish, but you can still make it look great with the right presentation.

How to Serve Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole:

1. Family-Style: Serve straight from the baking dish at the dinner table. Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop portions onto plates.
2. With Sides: This casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables balances the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds color and freshness to the dish.
2. Serve with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on each serving adds extra creaminess and tang, complementing the flavors of the casserole.

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Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prepping or planning ahead for busy weeknights.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply assemble, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use freshly grated potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as usual.

3. How long does Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole last in the fridge?

Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

4. Can I freeze Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

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Conclusion

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're feeding a family, prepping meals in advance, or making a dish for a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy hash brown topping, it’s an easy-to-make comfort food that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy the ultimate comfort meal!

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