As a busy mom, I’m always searching for tasty and simple meals my family enjoys. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my recipe for hashbrown casserole with ground beef. It’s a cheesy, hearty dish that everyone loves. It’s great for busy weeknights, weekend get-togethers, or any time you want a satisfying, affordable meal.
Key Takeaways
- Comforting and easy-to-make hashbrown casserole with ground beef
- Perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings
- Versatile and budget-friendly comfort food
- Cheesy and satisfying dish that the whole family will love
- Flexible recipe that can be customized to your taste preferences
Why This Cheesy Hashbrown and Beef Casserole is a Family Favorite
This loaded hashbrown casserole with ground beef is loved by many families in America. It’s full of savory flavors and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy families looking for a quick and affordable meal.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
When time is short, this casserole saves the day. It needs just a few ingredients and little prep. The mix of hashbrowns, ground beef, and cheese makes it a hit with everyone.
Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Comfort food doesn’t have to cost a lot. This casserole is made with affordable items like potatoes and ground beef. It’s a tasty, cozy meal that won’t empty your wallet.
Make-Ahead Benefits
This casserole is great because you can make it ahead of time. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you have guests over.
Its cheesy, beefy, and hashbrown goodness makes it a favorite. It’s great for a quick dinner or a comforting meal to make ahead. It’s sure to be a staple in your home.
Essential Ingredients for Hashbrown Casserole with Ground Beef
Creating the perfect hash brown beef casserole starts with the right ingredients. This dish combines savory ground beef, creamy hashbrowns, and melted cheese. Together, they create a flavor that will make your taste buds happy.
The dish’s base is the hashbrowns. Frozen shredded hashbrowns add a great texture and soak up the beef’s juices. I use lean ground beef for its meaty flavor.
For the cheese, a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is best. This blend makes the top layer creamy and gooey. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add depth to the flavors.
This casserole is perfect for breakfast or dinner. With the right ingredients, you’ll make a dish that’s both tasty and satisfying. So, get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and enjoy a meal that will be a hit with your family.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Beef and Potato Bake
Making the ultimate hashbrown ground beef casserole or cheesy hashbrown bake is simple. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your beef and potato dish perfect every time.
Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any extra fat from the pan.
Season the beef with your favorite spices. Use garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Layering Your Casserole
In a large baking dish, start with a layer of frozen hashbrowns on the bottom. Then, add the seasoned ground beef mixture on top. For extra cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
Keep layering until you’ve used all your ingredients. Finish with a layer of hashbrowns on top.
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
Wait until the hashbrowns on top are golden brown and crispy. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Creative Ways to Customize Your Hashbrown Beef Casserole
I love to try new things with my loaded hashbrown casserole. It’s great because you can change it up to fit your taste or dietary needs. Let’s look at some fun ways to make this hashbrown breakfast casserole with ground beef your own.
Veggie-Packed Variations
Adding fresh veggies can make your beef and hashbrown breakfast casserole healthier. Try sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Roasting sweet potatoes or zucchini can also add a seasonal twist.
Cheese Galore
Cheese is the main attraction in this casserole. So, why not mix it up? Use pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. Adding cream cheese or goat cheese can make it even creamier.
Breakfast-Inspired Touches
To make it even more like breakfast, add scrambled eggs or crumbled bacon on top. This mix of hashbrown breakfast casserole and breakfast flavors is perfect for any time.
| Ingredient | Variation | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Hashbrowns | Shredded sweet potatoes | Sweet and earthy |
| Ground Beef | Italian sausage or chorizo | Spicy and savory |
| Cheese | Smoked Gouda or Gruyère | Rich and nutty |
| Vegetables | Diced tomatoes and spinach | Fresh and vibrant |
There are countless ways to make your loaded hashbrown casserole with ground beef unique. Feel free to experiment and make it your own. Whether you want to add nutrients, try new flavors, or make it breakfast-ready, there’s a version for everyone.
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 bag 32 oz frozen shredded hashbrowns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup sautéed onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Drain excess fat, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Mix the Casserole Base:
- In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk.
- Stir in the frozen hashbrowns, half the cheddar cheese, and half the Monterey Jack cheese.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half the hashbrown mixture into the dish.
- Add the cooked ground beef as an even layer on top.
- Spread the remaining hashbrown mixture over the beef.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Customizations: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or extra veggies for variety.
The hashbrown casserole with ground beef is a favorite in many homes. It’s a mix of savory ground beef, fluffy hashbrowns, and melted cheese. This combo makes a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
This beef and potato casserole is great for busy nights or when you need a dish that reheats well. You can also make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. This makes it a personalized meal for your family.
Try out this cheesy hashbrown bake and see how you can make it special. Share your ideas and let’s all enjoy a delicious, hearty meal together. I’m sure your family will love it and ask for more!
