Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Looking for an easy, hearty, and delicious casserole that will satisfy the entire family? Look no further than Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole. This comforting dish combines savory ground beef, crispy hashbrowns, creamy soup, and melty cheese to create a flavorful one-pan meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a potluck favorite. Plus, it’s simple to customize based on your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Read on to learn how to make this delicious dish step-by-step, and don’t miss the serving and presentation tips to make this casserole truly stand out.

What is Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is a layered dish that combines ground beef, frozen hashbrowns, a creamy sauce (usually made with condensed soup and sour cream), and lots of cheese. The result is a comforting, hearty meal that’s crunchy on top, creamy in the middle, and loaded with rich, savory flavors. It’s the perfect dish for anyone who loves a simple, satisfying casserole with minimal prep time but maximum flavor. You can make this casserole in one baking dish, making cleanup easy too!

Ingredients List for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Here are the ingredients you will need to create this delicious casserole. Feel free to tweak them to your liking or based on what you have in your pantry.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – Lean ground beef is a good choice, but regular ground beef works just as well.
• 1 medium onion – Chopped finely to add depth of flavor to the beef mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced to add a flavorful kick.
• 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns – You can use shredded or diced hashbrowns.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – A creamy binder for the casserole.
• 1 cup sour cream – For extra creaminess and a tangy flavor.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Divided; 1 cup for mixing and 1 cup for topping.
• ½ cup milk – To thin the sauce for a smooth texture.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the beef mixture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – For sautéing the onion and garlic.

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen peas, corn, or green beans – To add extra vegetables to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – For added depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For a touch of warmth and color.
• Crushed cornflakes or crackers – For a crunchy topping.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts of this Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you're looking to make substitutions for dietary reasons or want to change up the flavors, here are some ideas:

1. Ground Meat Substitutes: If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken in place of the ground beef. For a more robust flavor, try ground sausage or a mixture of beef and pork.
2. Hashbrown Options: While shredded hashbrowns are classic, you can also use diced hashbrowns or even tater tots for a fun twist. Sweet potato hashbrowns are a nutritious option that adds a slight sweetness to the dish.
3. Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar is traditional, you can try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
4. Vegetables: Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can make this dish more nutritious. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic for added flavor and texture.
5. Cream Soup Substitutes: If you're not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce made from milk, flour, and butter.
6. Spices: Change up the flavor profile by adding different seasonings. Cumin and chili powder will give it a Southwestern flavor, while Italian seasoning can lend an herbaceous note.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to prepare your Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings (such as paprika or Worcestershire sauce). Drain any excess grease.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If you're adding any frozen vegetables, mix them in at this point.
4. Assemble the Casserole: In the greased casserole dish, spread an even layer of the frozen hashbrowns. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Next, pour the ground beef mixture evenly over the hashbrowns. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the beef layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Finally, top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let It Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your casserole dish.
2. Step 2: Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic. Drain excess fat and season the beef mixture.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Step 4: Layer the hashbrowns in the casserole dish, followed by the ground beef, then the creamy sauce.
5. Step 5: Top with the remaining cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until golden and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Draining the Ground Beef: Make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking the ground beef. Leaving too much grease in the dish can result in an overly oily casserole.
2. Overcooking the Hashbrowns: Be mindful of baking times, especially if you’re using shredded hashbrowns. If you bake them too long, they may become too crispy or even burnt.
3. Skipping Seasoning: Be sure to season each layer—hashbrowns, ground beef, and the creamy sauce. This ensures the flavors are well-balanced throughout the casserole.
4. Using Frozen Hashbrowns Straight from the Freezer: If you have time, thaw the hashbrowns slightly before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they cook evenly and you don’t end up with cold spots.
5. Not Letting the Casserole Rest: Always let the casserole sit for at least 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve neat slices.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

This casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of garlic bread. If you want to balance out the richness of the dish, serve it with a light and tangy coleslaw or pickles on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

To make your casserole look extra appealing, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving. If you're serving it for a special occasion, consider making it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bake it. If baking straight from the fridge, add 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Crunchy Topping: For a crispy, crunchy topping, sprinkle some crushed cornflakes, crackers, or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top of the casserole before the final 15 minutes of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Peel and grate them or slice them thinly, but be sure to pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking or freeze leftovers after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

4. What other cheese can I use?
Feel free to use different types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp cheddar blend. You can also add Parmesan for a deeper flavor.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is an easy, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its layers of savory ground beef, crispy hashbrowns, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone. It's versatile, customizable, and can easily be made ahead or frozen for later. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole has you covered. Try it tonight, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Print