Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole

This Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is that classic family dinner that gets everyone around the table. Layers of crispy potatoes, juicy beef, and creamy sauce make it heartwarming and filling. It always disappears fast in my house, no matter the season or occasion.

I first made this for a last minute potluck and now it has become a staple comfort meal for busy weekdays. The leftovers heat up beautifully and taste just as good.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: high quality beef with about 10 percent fat gives rich flavor without excess grease
• Onion: adds sweetness and depth choose firm fresh onions with tight skin
• Garlic: gives a savory backbone use fresh cloves for the best aroma
• Frozen shredded hash browns: create that perfect crispy potato layer check for no added seasoning so you can season it yourself
• Cheddar cheese: offers salty creaminess sharp cheddar melts best and packs more flavor
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: adds tang and a creamy texture full fat versions create the richest result
• Cream of mushroom soup: brings a savory base and creaminess use a top rated brand for best results
• Salt and black pepper: essential balancing flavors use freshly cracked pepper for brightness
• Paprika: adds a smoky warmth this is optional but I love the added color and taste
• Butter: helps brown the potatoes and makes a crisp golden topping
• Green onions: sprinkled over the top for bite and color use fresh and firm stalks

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the beef and onion:

Cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat in a large skillet for about eight minutes stirring occasionally until beef is cooked through and the onions are translucent and beginning to brown slightly for a deep flavor base

Add garlic and seasonings:

Stir in the minced garlic half the salt half the pepper and paprika if you are using it Cook for another one to two minutes so the garlic smells fragrant and blends with the beef

Mix hash brown ingredients:

In a large bowl combine thawed hash browns melted butter half the shredded cheese sour cream cream of mushroom soup and the remaining salt and pepper Stir until fully mixed and creamy

Layer the casserole:

Spoon half of the hash brown mixture into a greased nine by thirteen inch casserole dish Press it in evenly then top with all the cooked beef mixture Spread the remaining hash brown mixture on top gently so all the beef is covered

Bake until golden:

Sprinkle the top with remaining cheese Bake in a preheated oven at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for about thirty five minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown The edges should be crisp

Rest and garnish:

Let the casserole rest for at least five minutes before cutting This helps it set up so the slices hold their shape Garnish with plenty of chopped green onions for color and zing

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My favorite ingredient is sharp cheddar cheese since it gives such a melty and flavorful finish on top A memory that always comes to mind was the first time I made this for family game night and everyone scraped their plates clean

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days The casserole also freezes well for up to two months Slice into portions before freezing for easy single serving lunches When reheating from the fridge or freezer cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version If you do not have sour cream Greek yogurt makes a great substitute For extra vegetables add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef as it cooks

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and a side of roasted broccoli or green beans For brunch I sometimes serve it with fried eggs on top and hot sauce on the side

Cultural or Historical Context

Hearty casseroles like this one became popular in mid century America when convenience foods took off They are beloved for their simplicity and ability to feed a crowd with just a handful of everyday ingredients There is something deeply nostalgic about that bubbling cheese and crispy potato topping

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can grate and squeeze moisture from fresh potatoes, then use them in place of frozen hash browns. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

→ What cheese works best for this casserole?

Cheddar cheese is classic for its sharpness and melting quality, but Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses can also be used for added flavor.

→ Is it possible to add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be sautéed with the onions and garlic for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply bake when ready to serve, allowing extra time if baking from cold.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers should be cooled, then refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

For a homemade alternative, combine sautéed mushrooms with a roux and broth, or substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup if preferred.