I first discovered this recipe during a summer visit to my grandparents’ house. My grandma, a culinary wizard with an affinity for hearty dishes, introduced me to it. I remember walking into the kitchen, greeted by the tantalizing aroma of ground beef sizzling alongside onions. My grandma’s kitchen always felt like the heart of her home, filled with laughter, stories, and the savory scents of her cooking.
As we gathered around the kitchen table, she explained that this casserole was a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, a true crowd-pleaser that never failed to elicit compliments. The key to its charm was its simplicity and the way it allowed each ingredient to shine through. From the creamy, cheesy top layer to the perfectly seasoned hash browns beneath, every bite was a reminder of family warmth and togetherness.
Fast forward to today, and this casserole has become a staple in my own kitchen. I’ve made it for countless dinner parties, cozy family nights, and even for just a quiet evening at home. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, which means I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of those I love. Plus, it’s adaptable—sometimes I add a few of my favorite vegetables or a touch more spice, depending on what’s in my pantry or what my guests might enjoy.
Making this Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole isn’t just about preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments of connection. Whether you’re cooking it for a busy weeknight dinner or as a comforting dish to share with friends and family, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household as it has in mine.
So, grab your ingredients and let this casserole bring a little piece of home into your kitchen. Enjoy the simplicity, savor the taste, and cherish the moments it helps you create.
Making Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef and onions with the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried parsley, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top begins to turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Cooking Tips
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some crushed breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter before the final baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk and sour cream alternatives.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, add some cooked, crumbled bacon and a dash of sage to the mix for a seasonal twist. During summer, try incorporating fresh herbs like basil or chives.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your hash browns are labeled gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese and dairy products with suitable alternatives.
FAQ:
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just peel and grate them, then pat them dry to remove excess moisture before adding them to the mixture.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it as directed when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavors.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For extra spice, add a teaspoon of chili powder or a finely chopped jalapeño to the mixture before baking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed. Ensure the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It goes well with a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or a side of garlic bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top.
Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 package 30 oz frozen hash brown potatoes, defrosted
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine the cooked beef and onions with hash browns, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, parsley, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the hash browns start to turn golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
