Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a dish that brings together all your favorite flavors in one cozy, bubbling casserole. This Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is exactly that—a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. I first made this for my family on a chilly autumn evening when everyone was craving something filling but easy, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit. The crispy hashbrowns, savory ground beef, and melty cheese create the perfect bite every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this recipe is a winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef – I like using 80/20 for the best flavor, but leaner works too.
• 1 small onion, diced – Sweet or yellow onions add a nice depth.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – Any color works, but I love the sweetness of red peppers.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because everything’s better with garlic!
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – Cream of chicken works too if you prefer.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds richness and tang.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but any melty cheese will do.
• 1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns – Thawed for easier mixing.
• 1 tsp paprika – For a little smoky warmth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skip seasoning!

How to Make Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps, and the oven does most of the work. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once no longer pink, drain any excess grease.
3. Sauté the veggies – Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Mix the creamy base – In a large bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Combine everything – Fold in the beef mixture, hashbrowns, and 1 ½ cups of the cheese until well coated.
6. Bake and enjoy – Spread the mixture into your prepared dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tip: If you love a crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This hamburger hashbrown casserole is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Meat Swap: Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully if you prefer a lighter option. For extra flavor, try using seasoned breakfast sausage.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, pepper jack adds a nice kick, or Swiss gives it a different creamy texture.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Hashbrown Hack: No frozen hashbrowns? Shredded potatoes or even tater tots (crushed slightly) work great in a pinch.
• Crispy Top: For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.

What to Serve With Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole

This hearty dish is practically a meal on its own, but here are some perfect pairings:

• A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness
• Buttery roasted vegetables like green beans or carrots
• Fresh fruit salad for a sweet contrast
• Warm biscuits or crusty bread to soak up every delicious bite

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) store beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Portion and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes). For single servings, the microwave works too – just stir halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.

Is there a way to make this recipe lower carb?
Yes! Substitute cauliflower rice for the hashbrowns and reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Certainly! Just shred 2-3 medium russet potatoes (no need to peel) and pat them very dry before using.

My casserole seems too dry – what can I do?
Next time, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or cream. For now, drizzle a little broth over the top before reheating.

The Perfect Comfort Food

There’s something magical about how the crispy golden top gives way to creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite of this hamburger hashbrown casserole. Whether you’re serving it for a lazy weekend brunch, a comforting weeknight dinner, or bringing it to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast. The best part? Those happy faces around your table, asking for seconds. Now that’s what I call good food and great memories. Happy cooking!