Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Combining savory beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar over crispy hash browns, it’s both easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (1 bag)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
- 10.75 ounce condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat, breaking up the beef as it cooks. When fully cooked, drain any excess fat or liquid.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, pepper, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir in the hash browns, cooked ground beef and onions, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Grease a 9×13-inch or large baking dish, then spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 4: Bake the casserole in a 350˚F oven for 45 minutes. For a crispy, browned top, you can switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 5 to 8 minutes until edges bubble and cheese is golden.
Tips & Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner meat alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veggies.
- For a spicier kick, mix in a teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the sour cream to 1½ cups.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350˚F until warmed through to preserve texture, or microwave portions for quicker meals. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes and use them, but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture so the casserole isn’t watery.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, then cover tightly and freeze before baking. When ready, thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
PrintCheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
This Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. It features tender ground beef sautéed with onions, combined with crispy shredded hash browns, creamy sour cream, savory cream of chicken soup, and plenty of sharp cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. The casserole offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, with a crispy cheesy top and a rich, creamy interior that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (1 bag)
Dairy and Creamy Components
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
- 10.75 ounce condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and finely chopped onion together. Break up the beef as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat or liquids to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, ground pepper, condensed cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and well blended. Add in the shredded hash browns and the cooked ground beef and onions. Mix in one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch or similarly large baking dish thoroughly. Transfer the prepared mixture to the baking dish, spreading it out as evenly as possible. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes. For a crispy, browned top, optionally switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 5 to 8 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. Remove from oven once the edges are bubbly and the cheese is golden and slightly crisp.
Notes
- For extra crispy top, broiling after baking is recommended but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Using lean ground beef reduces excess grease but some fat is necessary for flavor and moisture.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor variation.
- Feel free to add diced green peppers or mushrooms with the onions for added veggies.
- Let casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up for easier serving.
Keywords: ground beef casserole, hash brown casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, family dinner, baked casserole
