Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole (Cheesy, Hearty & Family‑Friendly)

Introduction

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a classic comfort‑food recipe that combines seasoned ground beef, crispy shredded hash browns, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese into one satisfying, oven‑baked dish. It is affordable, filling, easy to prepare, and universally loved—making it a staple for busy weeknights, potlucks, and make‑ahead freezer meals.

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What Is Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole?

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a baked dish made with:

• Ground beef (hamburger)
• Shredded or diced hash brown potatoes
• A creamy binding sauce (often cream‑based)
• Cheese and seasonings

The casserole bakes into a golden, bubbly meal that delivers savory flavor, creamy texture, and crispy edges—all in one pan.

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Why This Casserole Is So Popular

• Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients
• Easy to assemble with minimal prep
• Feeds a crowd
• Freezer‑friendly and reheats well
• Customizable with endless variations

It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a regular rotation meal.

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Key Ingredients and Their Purpose

Ground Beef

Provides hearty, savory protein and depth of flavor.

Hash Browns

Form the starchy base of the casserole. Shredded hash browns create a softer interior, while diced hash browns add more bite.

Onion and Garlic

Enhance flavor and balance the richness.

Creamy Sauce

Typically made with cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, or a homemade cream sauce to bind everything together.

Cheese

Adds richness, structure, and irresistible melt. Cheddar is the most common choice.

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Choosing the Best Ground Beef

• 80/20 ground beef offers the best balance of flavor and moisture
• Leaner beef (90/10) works but may be slightly drier

Always drain excess grease after browning.

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Best Hash Browns for Casserole

• Frozen shredded hash browns (most common)
• Frozen diced hash browns for firmer texture

Thaw hash browns before using to avoid excess moisture.

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13‑inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Aluminum foil

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Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 1½ lbs ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 (30‑oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for richness)

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Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion until browned. Add garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Drain excess grease.

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Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter (if using), and 1½ cups of cheese.

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Step 3: Combine

Stir the cooked beef mixture and thawed hash browns into the creamy base until evenly coated.

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Step 4: Assemble

Spread mixture evenly into a greased 9×13‑inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.

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Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for best slicing.

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Tips for the Best Hash Brown Casserole

• Thaw and pat hash browns dry
• Season generously—potatoes absorb salt
• Let the casserole rest before cutting
• Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using frozen hash browns straight from the bag
• Skipping seasoning
• Over‑baking and drying out the casserole
• Not draining grease from beef

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Variations and Customizations

Cheesy Bacon Version

Add cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.

Mexican‑Style

Use taco seasoning, pepper jack cheese, and add corn.

Creamy Ranch

Mix in ranch seasoning and use Colby‑Jack cheese.

Healthier Option

Use ground turkey, reduced‑fat sour cream, and add vegetables.

No‑Canned‑Soup Version

Replace canned soup with homemade roux‑based cream sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a green salad
• Pair with steamed vegetables
• Add pickles or coleslaw for contrast

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Make‑Ahead, Storage, and Freezing

Make‑Ahead

Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat covered in oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 34 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?

Yes, shred and parboil them first to ensure even cooking.

Can this be made gluten‑free?

Yes, use gluten‑free soup or homemade sauce.

Why is my casserole watery?

Excess moisture usually comes from frozen hash browns or undrained beef.

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Why Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Always Works

This casserole succeeds because it balances savory beef, creamy sauce, and hearty potatoes into a cohesive, comforting dish that satisfies every time.

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Final Thoughts

Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is a timeless recipe that delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners, gatherings, or freezer meals, this dish offers reliability, flexibility, and unmistakable home‑style flavor.

Once you make it, it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent place in your recipe collection.

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