This cheesy hash brown casserole with hamburger is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make, combining the crispy texture of hash browns with the savory richness of ground beef and a generous layer of melted cheese. This recipe takes the classic casserole to the next level with a few simple tweaks, resulting in a dish that's both delicious and impressive.
What Makes This Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole with Hamburger So Good?
The magic lies in the combination of textures and flavors. The crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch, while the juicy hamburger adds a hearty depth of flavor. The creamy cheese sauce ties everything together, creating a rich and decadent casserole that's irresistible. We've also included tips and tricks to ensure your casserole comes out perfectly every time, with golden-brown edges and a perfectly melted cheese topping.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Casserole:
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed (or 2 lbs fresh, shredded)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, but adds creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions: Step-by-Step to Cheesy Hash Brown Perfection
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Prepare the Meat Mixture: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onion and bell pepper (if using) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, gently combine the thawed hash browns with the meat mixture, cheddar cheese, and sour cream (if using). Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
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Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the hash brown mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
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Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious additions or substitutes for cheddar.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake it.
What can I do if my hash browns are too dry?
If your hash browns are too dry, add a little extra milk or sour cream to the mixture to help keep them moist.
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh, shredded hash browns. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh hash browns will cook a bit faster.
How do I make this casserole even cheesier?
For an extra cheesy casserole, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
- Don't overmix the casserole: Overmixing can result in a gummy casserole. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a good quality ground beef: The flavor of the ground beef will significantly impact the overall taste of the casserole.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
- Get creative with toppings: Consider adding crispy fried onions or bacon bits for extra texture and flavor.
This cheesy hash brown casserole with hamburger is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple preparation and incredible flavor make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!
