Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner? Look no further! This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is the ideal combination of savory ground beef, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheese—all baked to perfection in one convenient casserole dish. Whether you're cooking for your family, friends, or hosting a casual get-together, this casserole will hit the spot. So, read on and discover everything you need to know about making this delicious recipe from scratch, including ingredients, variations, and serving tips. By the end, you'll have the perfect casserole to serve at any occasion!

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What is Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines several beloved ingredients: lean ground beef, hash browns, cheese, and a creamy sauce made from sour cream, half and half, and cream of mushroom soup. These ingredients come together in a layered casserole, creating a balanced mix of textures and flavors that make each bite irresistible. It's a versatile dish that can easily be adjusted to suit personal tastes, making it a perfect choice for any dinner table.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• ¾ cup sweet yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (298 grams 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 freshly cracked black pepper
• 30 ounces thawed frozen hash browns (850 grams)
• 3 cups freshly shredded mild cheddar cheese, divided in half

This ingredient list is straightforward and likely includes items you already have in your kitchen or pantry. The cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half and half combine to create a rich, creamy base, while the Italian seasoning, onion powder, and black pepper provide the dish with a savory depth of flavor.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ground Beef

Ground beef serves as the primary protein source in this casserole. Opt for lean ground beef, which contains less fat and creates a healthier meal. However, if you prefer a richer flavor, you can use ground chuck, which has a slightly higher fat content.

Hash Browns

The hash browns are the starchy, crunchy base of this casserole. They create a wonderful texture contrast against the soft, creamy sauce and beef. You can use frozen hash browns for convenience, just make sure they are thawed before mixing into the casserole.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

The cream of mushroom soup is the cornerstone of the creamy sauce. It adds a velvety texture and an earthy, savory flavor that complements the beef and potatoes. Make sure the soup is undiluted for maximum richness.

Sour Cream and Half and Half

Sour cream adds tanginess, while half and half contributes a creamy, rich texture. Together, these dairy ingredients help to balance the flavors and ensure that the casserole has a luxurious mouthfeel.

Cheese

Cheddar cheese brings a delicious, melty goodness to the casserole. Be sure to shred the cheese fresh for the best results, as pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting. Half of the cheese will be mixed into the casserole, while the other half is used as a topping for that perfect cheesy crust.

Substitutions and Variations

This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole recipe is incredibly flexible and can be customized based on your preferences or dietary needs.

• Meat Substitutes: You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. If you're vegetarian, try a plant-based ground beef alternative or diced vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup Substitute: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms or don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
• Dairy-Free Version: If you're looking to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative (such as coconut cream) and use a non-dairy milk instead of half and half. Opt for dairy-free cheese to complete the dish.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of a kick, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. You can also use spicy cheddar cheese or add some hot sauce into the creamy mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Break up the meat as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Using the same skillet, sauté the finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
4. Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half and half, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well blended.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In a large casserole dish, start by layering the thawed hash browns. Next, spread the cooked ground beef and sautéed onion mixture over the potatoes. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Finally, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let it Rest: Once the casserole is done, allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

How to Cook Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, and by following the steps outlined above, you can create a crowd-pleasing casserole with minimal effort. Here’s a brief recap of the steps for cooking Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven.
2. Brown the ground beef.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic.
4. Mix the creamy sauce ingredients.
5. Assemble the casserole layers.
6. Bake, first covered, then uncovered with extra cheese.
7. Let the casserole rest before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Thawing the Hash Browns: Using frozen hash browns without thawing them can result in a watery casserole. Always make sure they are thawed and patted dry before using.
• Overcooking the Beef: Cook the ground beef just until browned. Overcooking can make it dry and chewy.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Resting the casserole after baking is essential to let it set. Cutting into it too early might make it fall apart.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a meal in itself, but you can elevate its presentation by serving it alongside some fresh sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will contrast nicely with the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or peas make excellent sides that add color and freshness to the plate.

How to Serve Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

Once your casserole has rested and set, use a sharp knife to cut it into portions. A spatula works best for transferring the slices to plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, cilantro, or green onions add a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve in Individual Casserole Dishes: For a more refined presentation, you can bake the casserole in individual dishes, creating personal portions for each guest.

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Tips

• Shred Your Own Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?
A: Yes! After assembling the casserole, you can freeze it before baking. Simply cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes, but be sure to shred the potatoes and remove excess moisture by squeezing them in a kitchen towel before adding them to the casserole.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s an easy, versatile dish that you can customize to suit your preferences. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the satisfying flavors of this delicious casserole!

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