Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing meals that instantly brings everyone to the table—and I’m so thankful you’re here to make it with me. 💛 This is the kind of recipe I lean on when life is busy, the fridge is half-full, and I still want dinner to feel homemade and satisfying. Right after sharing a few fancier dishes, I promised you practical, cozy, anything-but-boring meals, and this Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is proof.
It’s creamy, cheesy, hearty, and filled with classic flavors the whole family loves. Bonus? It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for both weeknights and potlucks.
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Overview
This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tender hash browns, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a one-dish wonder that feels nostalgic in the very best way.
Reasons to Love This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
- Simple, affordable ingredients
- One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
- Kid-approved and freezer-friendly
- Rich, creamy, and incredibly filling
- Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings
What Does Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Taste Like?
Think savory, seasoned beef mixed with soft potatoes, coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce with just the right amount of richness. The top gets lightly golden and bubbly while the inside stays cozy and comforting. It’s hearty, satisfying, and tastes like home.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Budget-friendly and filling
- Easy to customize with add-ins
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
- Comfort food without complicated steps
Ingredients for Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup frozen corn or peas
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Ground turkey or chicken: Swap for beef for a lighter option
- Cream of chicken soup: Works just as well
- Greek yogurt: Can replace sour cream
- Colby jack or mozzarella: Swap cheeses based on preference
- Fresh herbs: Parsley or chives add a fresh finish
How to Make Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Drain excess grease.
Step 3: Season
Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
Step 4: Mix the Casserole
In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1½ cups of shredded cheese, and the cooked beef mixture. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a lightly golden top.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up beautifully.
What to Serve with Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
This casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- Simple green salad
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread
- Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
Tips for the Best Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole
- Thaw hash browns fully to avoid excess moisture
- Drain the beef well for a creamier casserole
- Shred cheese fresh for better melting
- Add cheese halfway through baking for extra gooey layers
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through
General Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 6–8
Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole FAQs
Can I make Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Absolutely—shred and par-cook them slightly first.
Why is my casserole watery?
This usually happens if hash browns weren’t thawed or beef wasn’t drained well.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan and add 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Very! It’s mild, cheesy, and always a hit with kids.
Conclusion: Why This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole Belongs on Your Table
This Hamburger Hash Brown Casserole is everything comfort food should be—easy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again, whether you’re feeding a busy family or bringing a dish to share. Cozy flavors, simple steps, and guaranteed smiles make this one a keeper.