What is hash brown casserole made of?

Hash brown casserole typically combines ground beef, vegetables, a creamy sauce (like cream of mushroom soup), and shredded hash browns, all baked together in a casserole dish.

Should I thaw hash browns for casserole?

Yes, it's best to thaw frozen hash browns before adding them to your casserole. This prevents excess moisture from making the casserole soggy. Simply pat them dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture.

Why is my hash brown casserole soggy?

There are two main reasons your casserole might be soggy: Over-mixing the hash browns with the filling can release too much moisture. Using too much liquid in the recipe.

No, hash browns are not meat. They are simply shredded potatoes.

What is hash brown made of?

Hash browns are diced or shredded potatoes that are fried or cooked until crispy.

Is hash brown healthy?

Hash browns themselves are just potatoes, so they offer some vitamins and minerals. However, how healthy they are depends on how they're prepared. Frozen hash browns often contain added sodium and preservatives. You can make your own healthier hash browns by using fresh potatoes and minimal oil.

Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole: Crispy, Creamy, Comforting

Description

Craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or weekend potluck? Look no further than the iconic hamburger hashbrown casserole. This cheesy, delicious creation brings together simple ingredients to deliver a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, transforming your ordinary casserole into a symphony of comfort food flavors.

Ingredients

Ground Beef: 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 80/20)
Onion: 1 medium, chopped or diced
Garlic Powder: 1 tsp (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp
Cumin: 1 tsp
Chili Powder: 1 tsp
Onion Powder: 1 tsp
Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
Frozen Shredded Hash Browns: 4 cups, thawed and patted dry
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, divided
Optional Add-Ins: Chopped bell pepper, celery, peas, corn, or broccoli

Instructions

Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the casserole later.
Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to control the overall fat content and avoid a greasy casserole.
Spice It Up: Return the skillet with the drained beef to the heat. Add smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the browned beef. Stir to combine, allowing the spices to cook and meld with the beef for 1-2 minutes, creating a flavorful base for your casserole.
Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion (and fresh garlic if using) to the beef mixture in the skillet. Sauté until the onions become translucent and softened, adding depth and richness to the dish. If you’re adding any extra vegetables like bell pepper or celery, include them at this stage for a balanced flavor.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the seasoned beef mixture, thawed and patted dry hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the hash browns maintain their texture without becoming mushy.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top, creating a delicious, golden crust as it bakes.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The casserole should be golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges, indicating it’s perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve, ensuring each piece holds together well. Enjoy your comforting, flavorful hamburger hashbrown casserole!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use higher fat content ground beef but ensure to drain excess grease.
Customize with your favorite add-ins like cooked sausage, fresh herbs, or extra vegetables.
For a creamy twist, substitute half of the cream of mushroom soup with sour cream.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Keywords: Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole, Comfort Food, Cheesy Casserole, Ground Beef Recipe, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal, Family Favorite, Potluck Recipe, Hash Brown Recipe, Classic Casserole