Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal, this Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is the answer.

This dish combines the best of comfort food—juicy ground beef, creamy layers, crispy hash browns, and a gooey cheese topping.

It’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner or a potluck dish that everyone will rave about.

The recipe requires minimal prep, and with just one casserole dish, you’ll have a meal that’s flavorful, filling, and sure to become a family favorite.

Let’s get started!

Why We Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is a winner for so many reasons.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make.

With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that feels like a labor of love without actually taking much time.

The layers of ground beef and creamy hash browns are perfectly seasoned, giving you a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.

And let’s not forget the cheese—melted, bubbly, golden perfection that ties the whole casserole together.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility.

You can easily customize it to suit your family’s preferences by swapping out ingredients or adding extra flavors.

It’s also a great make-ahead dish.

Prepare it the night before, and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

It’s comfort food at its best, and the whole family will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 6-8

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.

Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.

Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked ground beef mixture and thawed hash browns to the bowl with the creamy mixture.

Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out into an even layer.

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy, browned cheese topping.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole

Use Thawed Hash Browns

Make sure your hash browns are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture.

This prevents the casserole from becoming soggy.

Season the Beef Well

Don’t skimp on seasoning the ground beef.

The spices add depth and ensure every layer of the casserole is flavorful.

Mix the Ingredients Thoroughly

Stir the ingredients well to evenly distribute the creamy mixture, hash browns, and beef.

This guarantees every bite is perfectly balanced.

Cheese It Up

For extra cheesiness, mix in more cheese with the hash brown and beef mixture.

You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor.

Let It Cool

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

Variations to Try

Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Vegetable Boost: Mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.

Breakfast Casserole: Replace the ground beef with cooked breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs for a breakfast-friendly version.

Taco-Inspired: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for salsa and season the beef with taco seasoning.

Low-Carb Option: Replace hash browns with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly alternative.

BBQ Flavor: Stir in a few tablespoons of BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in the Fridge

Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze for Later

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.

They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheat for Best Results

Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven helps maintain the crispy texture.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table.

With its creamy layers, savory ground beef, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or bringing a dish to share, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious.

So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy bite of comfort!