Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole is one of those dishes I made on a cold evening when I wanted something hearty that didn’t require fancy ingredients so I pulled ground beef from the fridge tossed in some hashbrowns and added a generous amount of cheese. It came out of the oven bubbling golden and loaded with comfort so it immediately became a repeat request in my house and now I can’t imagine a week without it.

It’s warm rich cheesy and ridiculously easy to throw together so whether it’s a family dinner a potluck dish or just leftovers for the week it checks every box. The layers of crispy potatoes savory beef and melty cheese make it totally satisfying and I love how it fills the kitchen with that cozy home-cooked smell.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Ground beef – Adds savory protein and makes the base of the casserole
Frozen hashbrowns – Provide texture and a hearty potato layer
Onion – Adds flavor and a little sweetness once sautéed
Garlic – Brings depth and aroma to the beef
Cream of mushroom soup – Makes the filling creamy and comforting
Sour cream – Adds richness and a bit of tang
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts perfectly and brings cheesy goodness
Salt and pepper – To season every layer just right
Butter (optional) – Helps crisp up the hashbrowns if used on top

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet – For browning the beef and sautéing the onion
Mixing bowl – To combine the creamy filling ingredients
9×13 baking dish – The perfect size for layering everything evenly
Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir and spread ingredients
Measuring cups and spoons – To keep ingredient amounts balanced
Oven – For baking the casserole to golden bubbly perfection

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

I preheat the oven to 375°F so it’s ready while I prepare the beef and filling.

Step 2: Cook the ground beef

In a large skillet I cook the ground beef over medium heat breaking it apart as it browns. I add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until everything is fully cooked and fragrant. Then I drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Mix the creamy base

In a mixing bowl I stir together the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream then season with salt and pepper. This makes the creamy layer that ties everything together.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

In the greased 9×13 baking dish I layer half of the frozen hashbrowns followed by the cooked beef mixture and then spread the soup mixture evenly on top. I finish with the remaining hashbrowns and a generous layer of shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake

I cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes then uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool and serve

Once baked I let it cool for 5–10 minutes to set slightly then slice and serve warm.

Tips

If I want an extra crispy top I brush a bit of melted butter over the final hashbrown layer before baking. You can swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or cheddar soup if preferred. And for added veggies I sometimes mix in frozen peas or bell peppers with the beef for more color and nutrients.

Ways to Serve

This casserole is great on its own or with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies on the side. I also like to top it with chopped chives or a dollop of sour cream. Leftovers make a perfect next-day lunch and it’s even freezer-friendly if you want to make it ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?

Yes you can assemble it up to a day in advance and bake it when ready or store leftovers for easy reheating.

Can I freeze Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?

Definitely! Let it cool completely then wrap it well. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns in Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole?

Yes just shred them and squeeze out any excess moisture before using to prevent sogginess.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole soon! It’s warm cheesy and packed with all the flavors that make comfort food so satisfying. Let me know how it turns out and if you find your own favorite twist!

Happy Cooking!