If you’re craving a cozy, hearty, and downright delicious dish that brings together savory ground beef, crispy hash browns, and melty cheese, you have to try this Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe. This casserole is everything you want in comfort food: a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory with layers of flavor that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just wanting a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is a total winner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe is how simple but thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one plays its role in giving you a variety of textures and the layered flavors that make this dish so unforgettable.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of the casserole, providing rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 cup diced onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor as it softens during cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that enhances every bite.
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper: Offers a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: The star starchy component that crisps up wonderfully in the oven.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: A creamy, savory binder that brings moisture and umami.
- 3⁄4 cup Greek yogurt: Adds a subtle tang and smooth texture while keeping the sauce stable during baking.
- 1⁄2 cup sour cream: Boosts creaminess and a mild tang to balance richness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a deep, savory umami kick for that extra flavor dimension.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth that elevates the taste profile.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1⁄2 tsp black pepper: Provides subtle spiciness and depth.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create gooey, cheesy layers throughout.
- 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a touch of herbal freshness.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme: Mixed with breadcrumbs for an aromatic, crispy topping.
- 1⁄4 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Binds the breadcrumbs and adds richness to the topping.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables evenly and preventing sticking.
How to Make Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and placing your empty 9×13-inch baking dish inside to warm. This tip is a game-changer because it helps prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish and encourages a delightfully crispy bottom crust that adds texture to every bite.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, about six minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat for a less greasy casserole. Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté everything until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent, roughly four minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce to build a deep, savory flavor base that shines through each mouthful.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, and sour cream until you get a smooth, creamy sauce. The Greek yogurt adds just the right tang and helps keep the sauce thick and luscious, so it doesn’t separate while baking.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures Gently
Add the beef and veggies to the sauce bowl and give it a gentle fold to combine everything. Then fold in the thawed hash browns along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This gentle action is key to preserving the potato texture so your casserole stays beautifully chunky rather than mushy.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Carefully spread the beef, potato, and sauce mixture evenly into your warmed baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese across the top, making sure to cover the surface evenly for a melty, cohesive cheese layer that prevents dryness.
Step 6: Create the Crispy Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted unsalted butter, and chopped fresh thyme until the crumbs are fully coated. This mixture will bake into a crunchy, fragrant topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers below. Sprinkle it evenly over the cheese-covered casserole.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe for 30 to 35 minutes until the panko topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling along the edges. Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes—this little wait helps everything set so you can serve neat slices that hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is the perfect finishing touch, so sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over each portion before serving. The parsley adds a pop of color and a bright herbal note that cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, light sides like a simple green salad or steamed green beans. The freshness and crunch from the sides provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy, and cheesy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a little fancy? Serve this comforting casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch, and garnish each with a sprig of thyme. It’s a charming way to elevate this homey dish for company or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Its flavors often deepen and become even better after a day or two, making it an excellent candidate for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. For unbaked, assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze after baking, cool completely, wrap well, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in an oven set to 350°F until warmed through and bubbly around the edges to maintain that crispy crust. Microwaving is faster but may soften the crispy topping, so oven reheating is best when you want that freshly baked texture back.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! If you shred fresh potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture, they can be a great substitute. Just be sure to pat them dry well to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative to keep it vegetarian while still packing in hearty flavor.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer homemade, you can make a simple mushroom or white sauce using butter, flour, broth, and sautéed mushrooms. This adds a fresh, rich taste without the canned soup ingredients.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crush gluten-free crackers for the topping, and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and soup are gluten-free varieties.
How spicy is the casserole?
The casserole is gently seasoned with smoked paprika and black pepper for warmth without heat, so it’s perfect for those who like mild to medium flavors. You can adjust seasoning to your taste if you want a little more kick.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that combines comfort, ease, and incredible flavor, this Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Its layers of cheesy goodness, tender beef, and crispy topping make it a crowd-pleaser every single time. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to dishes. Give it a shot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole combining savory ground beef, tender hash browns, and a creamy mushroom sauce topped with a crispy buttery panko and herb crust. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this casserole is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
Main Casserole Base
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cheese and Toppings
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cooking Oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place a 9×13-inch baking dish inside to warm. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a crispy bottom crust.
- Cook Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add ground beef and cook for about 6 minutes until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then return skillet to heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper; sauté about 4 minutes until vegetables soften. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove from heat when onions are translucent.
- Make Creamy Sauce: In a large bowl, mix condensed cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, and sour cream until smooth. The Greek yogurt adds tanginess and helps prevent sauce separation during baking.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the beef and vegetable mixture to the creamy sauce. Gently fold in thawed hash browns and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, careful not to mash the potatoes to maintain texture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the preheated baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a uniform melted cheese layer.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and chopped fresh thyme. Mix until panko is coated evenly, then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer to create a crispy topping.
- Bake and Rest: Bake the casserole for 30–35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and sauce bubbles around the edges. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to set for easier serving.
Notes
- Warming the baking dish prevents sticking and helps get a crispy bottom crust.
- Drain excess beef fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Gently fold ingredients to keep hash browns intact and maintain texture.
- Resting after baking improves slicing and serving.
- Fresh herbs in the topping add flavor and texture contrast.
