Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Combining savory ground beef, crispy hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and bake to perfection.

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 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion. Break up the beef as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat or liquid.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, pepper, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the frozen hash browns, cooked ground beef and onions, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
4. Step 4: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. For a crispy, browned top, optionally switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for a balanced cheesy flavor.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and texture.
• If you prefer a gluten-free version, check that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or use a homemade substitute.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. The casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole mixture ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake as directed when ready.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 150 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty and comforting Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole combining seasoned ground beef, crispy hash browns, creamy sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect for an easy family dinner or cozy occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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)

Other Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

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Instructions

1. 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 even browning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat or liquid from the skillet to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
2. Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, pepper, condensed cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Add in the frozen shredded hash browns along with the cooked ground beef and onions. Stir in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Prepare Baking Dish and Layer Mixture: Grease a 9×13 inch or similarly sized baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the prepared mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 45 minutes, allowing the casserole to cook through and the cheese to melt.
5. Optional Broil for Crispiness: For a crispy, browned top, switch the oven to broil after baking and cook the casserole for an additional 5-8 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, and remove when the edges are bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

Notes

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the casserole.
• Drain cooked beef well to avoid a soggy casserole.
• Shred your own cheddar cheese for better melt and flavor if possible.
• Broiling at the end is optional but enhances crisp texture and golden color on top.
• This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; add extra baking time if baking from cold.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheat nicely.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheesy hash brown casserole, ground beef casserole, baked hash browns, comfort food casserole, easy dinner casserole