Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole – Delicious & Creamy Treat

ByBella Skye
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Delicious Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Hamburger hashbrown casserole is one of those comforting, all-in-one dishes that transforms everyday ingredients into something deeply satisfying. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfectly balanced between crispy, creamy, and savory. The combination of seasoned ground beef, golden hashbrowns, and a rich, creamy sauce makes it the kind of dish that always draws people back for seconds.

More Casserole Recipes

This casserole delivers the comfort of homemade cooking with the simplicity that home cooks appreciate. It’s built from pantry staples but cooked with technique and balance, giving it that restaurant-quality depth of flavor. The crispy hashbrowns form a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy beef filling underneath. The cheese melts into the layers, binding everything together into a dish that’s both rustic and refined.

What makes this hamburger hashbrown casserole special is how customizable it is. Whether you want to make it richer, lighter, spicier, or more vegetable-packed, it’s flexible enough to suit your taste. The flavor is bold from the seasoned hamburger base, mellowed by the creamy sauce, and finished with the crispy potato layer that every good hashbrown casserole needs. It’s easy to see why this recipe has become a classic in hamburger casserole recipes collections it feels like a hug in the form of food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has everything that makes comfort food so appealing but with balance and intention. As a chef, I love casseroles that are practical yet well-constructed, and this hamburger hashbrown casserole delivers that perfectly. The textures are layered and intentional, not random. You get a soft, creamy interior and a crisp, golden top. The flavor is rich and comforting without being greasy or overly heavy.

You’ll love this recipe because it’s versatile. It can be served as a complete meal or paired with simple sides like salad or roasted vegetables. It works for weeknights, potlucks, or even breakfast-for-dinner nights. The preparation is straightforward, and the ingredients are affordable and easy to find.

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

It’s also an excellent recipe for meal prep. You can make it ahead, refrigerate, or freeze it without losing quality. That practicality makes it one of the best hamburger casserole recipes for busy families. The structure of this dish beef for protein, potatoes for comfort, and cheese for richness makes it universally loved by adults and kids alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time, also serving

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 6

This hamburger hashbrown casserole serves six satisfying portions, ideal for family dinners or leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 package (30–32 ounces) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

Substitution Notes

  • Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based option for a lighter version.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: Cream of chicken or celery soup can be used for different flavors.
  • Sour Cream: Greek yogurt works as a lighter alternative.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack or Colby Jack can be used for a milder flavor.
  • Hashbrowns: Diced potatoes or tater tots can replace shredded hashbrowns for a different texture.
Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned. Once most of the pink is gone, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. This step builds the base flavor of your casserole, so taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

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Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and fully combined. This mixture adds creaminess to the hamburger base and binds the casserole together. The consistency should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable.

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Step 3: Combine the Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly along the bottom of the dish. Pour the creamy mixture over the beef and spread it into an even layer. This layering technique ensures every bite has a balance of creamy and meaty texture.

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Step 4: Add the Hashbrowns

Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly over the creamy beef mixture. Drizzle melted butter over the top to help with browning and flavor. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of cheddar cheese over the potatoes, finishing with a light dusting of paprika if you want extra color once baked.

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Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crisp

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp around the edges. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned. If you prefer a crispier top, bake an additional 5 minutes or turn on the broiler for the final few minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This short resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions. Serve warm, making sure each serving includes both the creamy interior and the golden, cheesy topping.

How to Serve

Hamburger hashbrown casserole is satisfying enough to serve on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness, while steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables add freshness. You can also serve it with a side of fruit salad for a brunch version. For sauces, ketchup, hot sauce, or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing all complement the flavors well.

For presentation, serve the casserole in squares or spooned portions on white plates to highlight the golden top. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. If you’re serving for guests, consider baking it in a white or light-colored casserole dish for a clean, elegant look that emphasizes the golden crust.

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

Additional Tips

  • Make sure the hashbrowns are fully thawed and well-drained to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
  • Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded. It melts better and gives a creamier texture.
  • Cook the beef mixture long enough to develop flavor but avoid overcooking it, which can make it dry.
  • Always let the casserole rest before cutting; it will hold together better and serve neatly.
  • Add a handful of cooked bacon or diced ham to the beef mixture for extra smoky flavor.
  • If making ahead, assemble everything but bake just before serving for the best texture.

Recipe Variations

  • Cheesy Bacon Hashbrown Casserole: Add crumbled bacon to the beef mixture and use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for an extra cheesy version.
  • Spicy Southwest Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole: Stir in diced green chilies, black beans, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Serve with salsa or sour cream.
  • Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole: Mix scrambled eggs into the creamy sauce and top with extra cheese for a hearty breakfast variation.
  • Vegetable-Packed Casserole: Add diced bell peppers, corn, or peas for added color and nutrients.

Freezing and Storage

  • To Store: Let the casserole cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and crispy.
  • To Freeze Unbaked: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour or until heated through.
  • To Freeze Baked: Cool completely, cut into portions, and store in airtight containers. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the hashbrowns.

Nutritional Information Approximate values per serving

  • Calories: 540
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 33g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 860mg

These numbers will vary depending on exact ingredients but represent a balanced, satisfying portion.

Final Words

Hamburger hashbrown casserole is the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly comforting. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy potatoes creates a balance of flavor and texture that makes every bite satisfying. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and can be adapted to fit any taste or occasion.

Making this hamburger hashbrown casserole at home gives you control over flavor and ingredients. You can adjust the seasoning, add vegetables, or play with the cheese blend to suit your preferences. Once you’ve made it once, you’ll see how simple yet impressive it can be. This recipe is more than just one of many hashbrown ground beef recipes it’s a foundation for endless variations and a dependable family favorite.

FAQ’s

Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best results.

Yes. Shred them yourself, squeeze out excess moisture, and proceed as directed.

Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage all work well. Just adjust the seasoning slightly.

You can replace the soup with a homemade sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and broth for a from-scratch option.

Absolutely. Peas, corn, bell peppers, or even spinach blend beautifully into the mixture.

Yes, leftovers freeze well. Store in airtight containers and reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat sour cream, and part-skim cheese.

A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even fruit salad makes great sides for balance.

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole - Delicious & Creamy Treat
Print

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole – Delicious & Creamy Treat

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Casserole Recipes
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

540

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

  • 1 package (30–32 ounces) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

Directions

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned. Once most of the pink is gone, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. This step builds the base flavor of your casserole, so taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and fully combined. This mixture adds creaminess to the hamburger base and binds the casserole together. The consistency should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly along the bottom of the dish. Pour the creamy mixture over the beef and spread it into an even layer. This layering technique ensures every bite has a balance of creamy and meaty texture.
  • Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly over the creamy beef mixture. Drizzle melted butter over the top to help with browning and flavor. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of cheddar cheese over the potatoes, finishing with a light dusting of paprika if you want extra color once baked.
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp around the edges. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned. If you prefer a crispier top, bake an additional 5 minutes or turn on the broiler for the final few minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
  • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This short resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions. Serve warm, making sure each serving includes both the creamy interior and the golden, cheesy topping.

Notes

  • Make sure the hashbrowns are fully thawed and well-drained to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
  • Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded. It melts better and gives a creamier texture.
  • Cook the beef mixture long enough to develop flavor but avoid overcooking it, which can make it dry.
  • Always let the casserole rest before cutting; it will hold together better and serve neatly.
  • Add a handful of cooked bacon or diced ham to the beef mixture for extra smoky flavor.
  • If making ahead, assemble everything but bake just before serving for the best texture.

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