Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is one of those dishes that brings instant comfort after a busy day. I first made it on a cold weeknight, using a few staple ingredients: shredded hashbrowns, ground beef, and cheese. To my surprise, it became one of the best, most delicious dinners my family now asks for weekly, right up there with Smoked Mississippi Pot Roast and Jalapeño Popper Burger in our dinner rotation.
This recipe reminds me of my grandma’s old Funeral Potatoes, but with a twist—it’s a full meal. The creamy, cheesy layers of potatoes mixed with savory beef bring out deep flavors ideal for cozy gatherings or simple weeknights. It’s an easy, budget-friendly option that’s sure to please and now holds a permanent place in my go-to dinner lineup.
Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Last winter, I tweaked a popular casserole that my family already loves, and it quickly became one of our weeknight favorites. This Hamburger Casserole Recipe uses frozen hashbrowns, ground beef, and cheese—a few simple ingredients I always find in my pantry, freezer, or fridge. The recipe is easy to make, packed with comfort food vibes, and great for feeding a crowd.
I often pull together this delicious dish using canned mushroom soup, potato, and other sundry ingredients—even vegetables sometimes. It’s baked to perfection with a crispy top, and the final step always brings smiles when that melted cheese hits. Whether you’re cooking for the day or prepping for the week, this budget-friendly, classic casserole saves time in the kitchen and hits the spot with fresh eyes every time I tackle it.For more comforting meals, check out our Smoked Bacon Mac and Cheese or try the flavorful Bacon Jam Burger for an easy dinner twist.
Ingredients of Hamburger Casserole:
- Halal Ground Beef– Browned and drained; provides the meaty base.
- Chopped Onion– Adds flavor and aroma.
- Shredded Hash Brown Potatoes (32 oz, thawed)– Starchy layer for texture.
- Halal Cream of Mushroom Soup– Creamy binder; use certified halal or homemade.
- Whole Milk (½ cup)– Helps blend ingredients smoothly.
- Halal Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded)– Melty topping; ensure halal rennet.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp)– Light seasoning for balance.
Why Choose Ground Beef?
I always use ground beef because it’s a versatile, budget-friendly choice that brings richness and deep flavor to any dish. In this casserole, the protein-packed ingredient is perfectly paired with diced onions and garlic, which enhances the overall taste and aroma.
This mouthwatering combination creates a bold base that complements the creamy, cheesy layers of hash browns. It’s the perfect blend of texture and comfort in one bite.
How to Make Hamburger Casserole with Hash Browns
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9 X 13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
Cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until brown, then drain the excess grease to prevent the casserole from being too oily.
3. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the browned hamburger meat, thawed hash browns, chopped onions, milk, cream of mushroom soup, pepper, and half the cheese.
4. Combine and Transfer to Dish
Once all ingredients are well combined, pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
5. Bake the Casserole
Bake 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the hash browns are golden and tender.
6. Add More Cheese
Add the remaining cheese on top and return to the oven for five more minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest at room temperature for 5 minutes. Then serve, season with salt, and enjoy with your loved ones!
Substitutions and Variations
1. Make a Smaller Portion
If you’re cooking for a smaller group, try using half the recipe. Just use half a bag of frozen hash browns and bake them in an 8×8 pan or small dish.
2. Add Extra Veggies
Mix in 1 to 2 cups of mixed vegetables, such as green beans, corn, carrots, or peas. These veggies add color and texture without making the casserole watery or soggy.
3. Swap the Meat
You can easily substitute ground turkey for a lighter taste if you don’t eat beef. It still blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
4. Switch Up the Flavors
Use diced potatoes instead of hashbrowns, or try cream of chicken in place of mushrooms. For new flavor twists, you can also use different shredded cheese blends, like cheddar.
How Long Does It Take to Cook a Hamburger Casserole?
This simple hamburger casserole is quick to prepare and easy to cook. It uses just a few ingredients. Once you combine everything and place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees, it should be baked for about 45 minutes.
I always wait until the shredded hash browns are crispy on top, then add additional cheese and continue baking. The cheese should be fully melted and lightly brown before being removed and served to the family.
How to Thaw and Freeze Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole
Thaw frozen hashbrowns before using by placing the bag in the refrigerator overnight or in a covered bowl at room temperature for 30 minutes. Always drain moisture to keep the casserole from getting soggy.
To freeze, assemble the casserole, wrap it with plastic and foil, then label and date. When ready, bake from frozen in a preheated oven, double the cooking time, and remove foil near the end to let the cheese brown.
What to Serve with Hamburger Casserole
Since this hamburger casserole is a hearty meal, I like to balance it with a lighter side dish. Steamed broccoli in the microwave is easy, quick, and amazing with a bit of melted butter—my kids love it! You can also serve green beans and roasted asparagus or even top the dish with sour cream—an absolute family favorite.
How to Store Leftovers
Place any leftover hamburger casserole in an air-tight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in a microwave-safe dish for a quick lunch the next day. It’s easy to reheat and still tastes just as fresh.
What the Kids Can Do
The kids can lend a hand by measuring ingredients and helping with small tasks while making the dish. Let them choose an herb or spice like oregano, thyme, or basil to change the flavor. They also love to spread the potatoes, sprinkle cheese on the casserole, and add chopped red peppers at the end for a pop of color.
Easy Hamburger Casserole Meal
This easy hamburger casserole meal is my go-to for a quick, hearty dinner with rich flavor. It uses just a few ingredients, saves time, and doesn’t require much effort or money. My family loves how simple and satisfying it is.
FAQs
- How do I know when my hashbrown casserole is done?
It’s done when the top is golden brown, the edges are bubbling, and a knife inserted in the center comes out hot. - Should I cook hash browns covered or uncovered?
Cook uncovered to let the top get crispy and the cheese brown properly - Why is my hashbrown casserole mushy?
It’s likely due to excess moisture—make sure to thaw and drain hashbrowns casserole well before baking. - How long does potato casserole last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 3–4 days in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.
Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine the browned beef, thawed hashbrowns, chopped onions, milk, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and half the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the hashbrowns are golden and tender.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.