Are you looking for the perfect comfort food that brings the family together around the dinner table? Look no further! This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate dish to satisfy your cravings. Rich, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make, this hearty casserole will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious, filling dish, and be sure to read through the entire article for all the best tips, variations, and serving ideas to elevate this meal even more!
What is Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a savory, layered dish featuring lean ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and hash browns, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your flavor preferences, making it perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe is not only filling but also loaded with rich flavors, and it's one of those dishes that’s bound to have everyone coming back for seconds.
Let's dive into the details, starting with the ingredients you'll need.
Ingredients List for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
- 2 pounds lean ground beef: The foundation of the casserole. Opt for lean beef to avoid excessive grease.
- ¾ cup sweet yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: For that bold, aromatic flavor.
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (298 grams, undiluted): Creamy, savory sauce that binds the casserole together.
- ⅔ cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess.
- ⅔ cup half and half: Balances the rich ingredients with a lighter texture.
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Provides a delicious herbal undertone.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the onion flavor in the casserole.
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper: For a touch of heat and sharpness.
- 30 ounces thawed frozen hash browns (850 grams): The crispy, starchy layer that makes this casserole a comfort classic.
- 3 cups freshly shredded mild cheddar cheese, divided in half: Cheesy goodness to bring it all together.
Substitutions and Variations
Want to make this dish your own? Here are some easy substitutions and variations:
- Protein options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a leaner or different taste.
- Cheese choices: Try using sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Hash brown alternatives: You can substitute frozen diced potatoes, or even tater tots, for a different texture.
- Gluten-free version: Ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or use a homemade version to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-fat version: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and opt for low-fat cheese for a lighter take on the dish.
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on your personal preferences to create a dish that best suits your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve got all the ingredients and potential swaps laid out, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a flawless Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows your casserole to cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
In a large skillet, brown the 2 pounds of lean ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add the ¾ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion and 1 tablespoon minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup, ⅔ cup sour cream, ⅔ cup half and half, 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl, mix the thawed 30 ounces of hash browns with half of the 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups). Then, pour the beef mixture over the hash browns, followed by the creamy mushroom sauce mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the hash brown and beef mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
How to Cook Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
For a clearer overview of the process, here’s a concise step-by-step summary:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic.
- Mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and seasonings.
- Combine the hash browns, beef mixture, and sauce in a large bowl.
- Layer the mixture in a greased baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not thawing the hash browns: Always thaw the hash browns completely. Frozen hash browns will release too much water, making your casserole soggy.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly shredded cheese is always best.
- Overcooking the beef: Don’t cook the beef to a crisp before baking, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Skipping the resting period: Letting the casserole rest after baking allows it to firm up and makes serving much easier.
Serving and Presentation Tips
While the casserole itself is incredibly flavorful and filling, there are ways to elevate its presentation and pairings to create a complete meal.
How to Serve Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For breakfast, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and toast. For lunch or dinner, pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the casserole. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread for a truly indulgent meal.
Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
- Herb garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the casserole just before serving to add a pop of color.
- Cheese layer: To make the dish more visually appealing, add a thin layer of cheese on top halfway through baking for an extra crispy, golden layer.
- Individual servings: Instead of making one large casserole, you can divide the mixture into smaller, individual-sized dishes for a more elegant presentation.
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh the next day for a no-fuss meal.
- Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F until heated through.
- Add vegetables: To incorporate more veggies, try adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it as instructed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven for best results.
Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, low-fat cheese, and substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten up the recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes, but make sure to shred the potatoes and pat them dry before using them to avoid extra moisture.
Conclusion
This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that's easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just as a cozy meal for yourself, this casserole delivers on both taste and simplicity. Don’t forget to experiment with the substitutions and variations to make the recipe your own! Enjoy this cheesy, savory dish, and impress your loved ones with a meal that’s sure to become a staple.
PrintHamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole recipe combines lean ground beef, hash browns, and cheddar cheese for a savory, comforting meal. Made with cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Italian seasoning, it’s a perfect dish for dinner or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- ¾ cup sweet yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (undiluted)
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- ⅔ cup half and half
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 30 ounces thawed frozen hash browns
- 3 cups freshly shredded mild cheddar cheese, divided in half
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half and half, salt, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the thawed hash browns. Layer half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers with the remaining hash browns, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken if preferred.
- For extra flavor, top with chopped green onions or crispy bacon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅛ of casserole
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Leave a Reply