Looking for a delicious, family-friendly meal that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole. This savory dish combines ground beef, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese into one mouth-watering casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're planning a weeknight dinner or looking to make something comforting for a gathering, this recipe is sure to please! Read on to discover how to make this flavorful dish step by step.

What is a Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty and easy-to-make dish that brings together layers of ground beef, shredded hash browns, creamy soups, and a generous topping of melted cheese. The combination of savory beef and crispy potatoes creates a comforting, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes or can stand alone as a complete meal. It’s a perfect dish to throw together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners.
Ingredients List for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
Before you begin preparing your casserole, you’ll need to gather all the ingredients. Here's what you'll need for a classic Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole:
- 1 pound of ground beef – This is the base of your casserole. You can use either lean ground beef or regular ground beef depending on your preference.
- 1 bag (about 30 ounces) of frozen hash browns – Shredded or cubed hash browns work great for this recipe.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup – This adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of chicken soup – A second layer of creaminess that balances out the flavors.
- 1 cup of sour cream – For extra richness and creaminess.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds a bit of sweetness and texture.
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese – For that irresistible melted cheese topping.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season the ground beef and bring out all the flavors.
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes – For extra flavor, depending on your taste preferences.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is its versatility. You can easily make substitutions and variations to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences.
- Ground turkey or chicken – Swap out the ground beef for a leaner option if you're watching your calorie or fat intake.
- Vegetarian version – Use a plant-based meat substitute and opt for cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom or chicken for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
- Add vegetables – Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to the mixture.
- Spicy twist – Add some chopped jalapeños, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Cheese lovers' variation – Mix different types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for extra cheesy goodness.
- Gluten-free – Use gluten-free canned soups and ensure that your hash browns are also gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make your Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole.
- Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Cook the ground beef – In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Drain the excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you'd like (such as garlic powder or paprika).
- Sauté the onions – Add the finely chopped onions to the skillet and cook them until they are soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix the creamy ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir well to ensure that the mixture is smooth.
- Combine the beef and soups – Add the cooked ground beef and sautéed onions to the bowl with the soup mixture. Stir until everything is fully combined.
- Prepare the hash browns – In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the frozen hash browns evenly at the bottom.
- Layer the casserole – Spread the beef and soup mixture over the hash browns. Then, layer the remaining hash browns on top.
- Top with cheese – Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of hash browns.
- Bake – Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the hash browns are golden brown.
How to Cook Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let's break down the key steps for making Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole so you can create this dish like a pro:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by cooking your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. It's essential to drain the fat afterward to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Season the meat well to enhance the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Onion and Cream Mixture
Sauté your onions until they are soft, then mix your cream soups and sour cream together in a bowl. This mixture will give the casserole its creamy texture and bind everything together.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Lay out the frozen hash browns, followed by the beef mixture, and top it off with more hash browns. Finally, sprinkle cheese on top for a rich, golden crust.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Place the dish in the oven for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the cheese has melted and turned a perfect golden brown, and the hash browns are crispy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not draining the ground beef – If you skip this step, the casserole can become greasy.
- Using wet hash browns – Make sure your hash browns are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Overcrowding the dish – Be sure to evenly distribute the layers so the casserole bakes evenly.
- Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season the beef and the soup mixture. The cream soups can be bland on their own, so seasoning is key to a flavorful casserole.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a simple, hearty dish, but with the right touches, you can elevate its presentation.
How to Serve Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
Serve this dish hot from the oven, paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. It also goes great with crusty bread or rolls for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
To make your casserole look even more inviting:
- Sprinkle fresh herbs – Garnish with chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color.
- Serve in a rustic dish – Use a cast-iron skillet or a rustic baking dish for that homestyle look.
- Individual portions – Spoon out individual servings onto plates and garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions.
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead – You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven for an easy dinner.
- Double the recipe – This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd. If you’re cooking for a large group, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
- Leftovers – This casserole tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes! You can grate fresh potatoes and use them instead of frozen hash browns. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the casserole.
Can I freeze Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling the dish but before baking, cover it tightly with foil and freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier version. The cheese is flexible depending on your taste preferences.
How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat leftover casserole in the microwave for individual portions or in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes to warm through and maintain the crispy top.
Conclusion
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a simple yet delicious meal that is perfect for busy families or casual gatherings. With its layers of flavorful ground beef, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is always a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this classic comfort food!
PrintHamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole recipe combines ground beef, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese for a comforting, savory meal. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish makes the perfect weeknight dinner for the family. Bake to golden perfection and enjoy a satisfying casserole packed with flavor. Keywords: Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole, comfort food casserole, ground beef recipe, cheesy casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Frozen hash browns
- Onion
- Garlic
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef with chopped onions and garlic in a skillet.
- In a large bowl, mix hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Combine the cooked beef with the hash brown mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
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