Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners. It combines browned ground beef and onions with creamy sour cream, condensed soup, and shredded hash browns, all topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole delivers warm, savory flavors and a satisfying cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Vegetables
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
Casserole Base
- 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (1 bag)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 1 cup sour cream
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef and finely chopped yellow 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.
- Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, ground pepper, condensed cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir in the frozen shredded hash browns along with the cooked ground beef and onions. Add 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mix everything evenly until fully combined.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch or similarly large baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the combined mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to allow the casserole to set and the flavors to meld. For a crispy and browned cheese topping, optionally switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 5 to 8 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and edges start to bubble.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the casserole.
- Make sure to thaw the frozen hash browns before mixing for better texture.
- Optional: Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and vegetables.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, hash brown casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, easy dinner, family meal
