If you’re craving a dish that combines comfort, ease, and that irresistible cheesy goodness, look no further than this Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that brings together crispy hashbrowns, savory ground hamburger, and melted cheddar cheese into one mouthwatering casserole. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for a potluck, this recipe delivers big on flavor and is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, down-to-earth ingredients is all you need to create this cozy casserole. Each item plays a key role, whether adding savory depth, creamy texture, or cheesy richness.
- Frozen Hashbrowns: About 4 cups or 1 pound give the perfect crispy potato base without any fuss.
- Ground Hamburger: A pound of flavorful protein that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
- Cheddar Cheese, shredded: Two cups for that melty, cheesy punch everyone loves.
- Onion, chopped: One medium onion adds subtle sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: One 10.5 oz can brings creamy mushroom goodness right into the mix.
- Sour Cream: One cup for a tangy, velvety texture that ties everything together.
- Butter: Two tablespoons to sauté the onions and add richness.
- Salt: One teaspoon or to taste, elevating all the flavors perfectly.
- Black Pepper: Half a teaspoon or to taste, giving a subtle spicy kick.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Hamburger and Sauté Onion
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and aromatic. Add the ground hamburger, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully browned with no pink spots left. This step builds the savory base every great casserole needs. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Then fold in the cooked hamburger and onions, mixing thoroughly so every bite is bursting with flavor. This creamy mixture is what binds this dish into a perfect casserole.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Hashbrowns
Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and frozen hashbrowns, making sure everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. The cheese begins to melt into the hot ingredients, and the hashbrowns will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake
Spread the entire mixture evenly into a generously greased casserole dish. Pop it into a 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through with a comforting aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the casserole to set, making it easier to serve perfect portions that hold their shape on the plate.
How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal touch that brightens the rich flavors. For an extra decadent finish, a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado can elevate the whole experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands up well on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add vibrant color and a nutritious crunch alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can also top each serving with a fried egg for breakfast or brunch style, turning this dinner classic into an all-day favorite. Another idea is to layer it in a clear baking dish for a beautiful presentation that shows off the cheesy, meaty layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect meal prep choice. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes depending on portion size. For convenience, microwaving individual portions works too—just cover loosely and heat in one-minute intervals, stirring gently if you like the cheese melted evenly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can shred fresh potatoes and use them, but be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing to avoid a soggy casserole.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter version. Just be mindful they cook a bit faster and can be leaner, so you might want to add a little extra butter or cheese for richness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe?
Definitely. Swap the ground hamburger for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. This keeps the hearty texture and flavor while making it vegetarian-friendly.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to mix in garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor profile. A handful of diced bell peppers or jalapeños also adds a fun kick.
How do I make this casserole lower in calories?
Use leaner ground beef or turkey, reduce the cheese quantity slightly, and swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to add protein with fewer calories while keeping the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels like a big warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to make, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and delivers comfort food happiness with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a favorite in your home as much as it is in mine!
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Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring browned ground hamburger and sautéed onions combined with crispy frozen hashbrowns, creamy mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect meal for family dinners or potlucks, delivering rich flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns (about 1 lb)
- 1 pound ground hamburger
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Brown the Hamburger and Sauté Onion: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the ground hamburger, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well incorporated. Then add the cooked hamburger and onion mixture, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese and Hashbrowns: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and frozen hashbrowns until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. This ensures every bite is cheesy and flavorful.
- Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake: Grease a casserole dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the top has turned a golden brown color.
- Let It Rest: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve with clean portions.
Notes
- You can add chopped green bell peppers or mushrooms to the hamburger mixture for extra flavor and veggies.
- If you prefer a crispier top, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
- Make sure to drain excess grease from the cooked hamburger to avoid a greasy casserole.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if desired for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
