Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for an easy, hearty meal that will satisfy the entire family? This Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole recipe is the perfect comfort food—packed with savory flavors, rich textures, and the cheesy goodness that everyone loves. Whether you're a busy parent or someone who wants a delicious, hassle-free dinner option, this recipe will become a go-to favorite. Read on to find out how to make this crowd-pleaser, from the ingredients you need to step-by-step cooking instructions. Stick around for helpful tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas to elevate your dish even further!

What is Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is a savory, one-pan meal that combines ground beef, hashbrown potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your family’s preferences. Think of it as comfort food at its finest, where every bite is packed with hearty ingredients. Best of all, it's a great way to use up common pantry items, and it's suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious casserole.

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Ingredients List for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

• 2 pounds ground beef: The heart of this recipe, providing protein and a rich, savory flavor. You can opt for ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.
• ½ cup onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch. Use yellow or white onions for the best flavor, or substitute with green onions if you prefer.
• 1 30 oz package frozen hashbrown potatoes, thawed: Provides the casserole’s signature texture and a crispy top. Shredded or diced hashbrowns work best, depending on your preference.
• 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and binds the casserole together. You can also use cream of mushroom or cheddar soup for a different flavor.
• ½ cup milk: Helps to create a smooth, creamy sauce that blends well with the soup. Any type of milk—dairy or non-dairy—will work for this recipe.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds richness and tanginess, balancing the dish’s savory elements. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole. Adjust to taste.
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild spice that complements the beef and potatoes.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle hint of garlic to the casserole.
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley: A mild herb that brightens the dish with a bit of freshness. You can use fresh parsley if you have it on hand.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Cheddar gives the casserole its cheesy topping and gooey interior. You can mix in other types of cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out ground beef for a leaner option like turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free casserole, replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or mushrooms for a hearty, umami flavor.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you're not a fan of cream of chicken soup or want to switch it up, use cream of mushroom soup for a more earthy flavor.
• Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a twist.
• Add Veggies: You can mix in vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots to add color, texture, and nutrients to your casserole.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for some heat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through how to prepare this easy and delicious casserole from start to finish.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain the excess grease and set the beef mixture aside.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Add hashbrowns and cheese: Next, fold in the thawed hashbrowns, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the cooked ground beef mixture. Stir everything together until the hashbrowns and beef are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray, then spread the hashbrown and beef mixture evenly in the dish.
6. Top with remaining cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
8. Cool slightly before serving: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Thawing the Hashbrowns: Always thaw frozen hashbrowns before mixing them into the casserole. Using frozen hashbrowns will result in uneven cooking, and the texture won’t be as crispy or tender.
• Overcooking the Ground Beef: Cook the beef until just browned. Overcooking can make the meat dry and tough.
• Skipping the Cheese Topping: The final layer of cheese adds a crispy, golden topping that makes the casserole extra delicious. Don’t skimp on it!
• Undercooking the Casserole: Ensure the casserole is fully cooked and bubbling. If the center is still cold or underdone, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is ready, it's time to serve it up! Here are some ideas to make it look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

• Family-style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish. You can place it in the center of the table with a large spoon for easy serving.
• Individual servings: Use a spatula to cut the casserole into individual portions and plate them for each guest. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole:

• Herb Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or green onions on top before serving to enhance the presentation.
• Cheese Drizzle: For an extra cheesy touch, drizzle a bit of melted cheese or cheese sauce over the plated portions.

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Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. Simply increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes if it's been chilled.
• Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a large group or want leftovers, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. Just make sure the casserole is evenly cooked through.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze this casserole before baking it. Assemble the ingredients, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you’ll need to peel, shred, and drain them well before adding them to the casserole.

What can I serve with Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes! Cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even cream of cheddar can all be used as substitutes.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure the hashbrowns are also gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is an easy, hearty, and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a warm, cheesy dish that brings everyone to the table.

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