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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
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 even browning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat or liquid from the skillet to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
