This Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy hashbrowns. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect all-in-one meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
The best part? You can easily customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out ingredients to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy a bit of spice, prefer a vegetarian version, or want to add extra flavor with some seasonings, this dish is versatile enough to adapt to your needs. It’s a simple and comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, drain excess fat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the cooked beef and onions to the soup mixture, followed by the frozen hashbrowns. Stir until fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
When it comes to comfort food, there’s something about a hearty casserole that just feels like home. The Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole is a quintessential example of a meal that is not only satisfying and delicious but also simple to prepare. This dish combines the richness of ground beef with the crispy, golden texture of hashbrowns, and the creaminess of mushroom soup, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a family gathering, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.
A Family-Friendly Meal
This Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole is one of those recipes that families rave about because it checks all the boxes: it’s easy, affordable, and loved by everyone. If you have picky eaters at home, this casserole is perfect because it incorporates familiar ingredients that are comforting and full of flavor. Ground beef, hashbrowns, and cheese are staples in many households, making this a go-to dish when you’re pressed for time or looking for something hearty.
Additionally, casseroles are a great way to get a complete meal in one dish. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it an easy choice for busy parents or those who don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Convenience and Simplicity
One of the biggest benefits of this Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole is how easy it is to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can prepare a delicious and hearty meal in under an hour. The prep time is minimal – just browning the beef, chopping onions, and mixing the ingredients. After that, it’s all about layering and baking. The fact that everything is combined into one dish means fewer pots and pans to clean, which is always a win in the kitchen!
- Hearty and Filling
The combination of ground beef and hashbrowns makes this casserole incredibly filling. Ground beef provides a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall health. Meanwhile, hashbrowns, which are made from potatoes, add a comforting and satisfying texture. The creamy mushroom soup binds it all together, making each bite melt in your mouth. Whether you serve it with a side salad or enjoy it on its own, this casserole will keep you full and content.
- Customization to Fit Your Taste
While this recipe is a crowd-pleaser in its classic form, one of the best things about casseroles is their versatility. You can customize the recipe to fit your dietary preferences or to use ingredients you have on hand. For instance, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile. You can also add veggies like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value or simply to add extra flavor.
- Perfect for Meal Prepping
Another benefit of this Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole is that it’s perfect for meal prepping. Casseroles generally store well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making them ideal for leftovers. If you’re someone who likes to meal prep for the week ahead, this dish can be made in advance, refrigerated, and then reheated throughout the week. It can also be frozen for longer storage – just bake, cool, and then wrap it tightly in foil before storing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave for a fast and convenient meal.
- Affordable Ingredients
One of the best things about this casserole is how affordable it is to make. With ground beef, hashbrowns, and a can of cream of mushroom soup, you’ve got the base for a delicious dish that won’t break the bank. It’s a budget-friendly option for those who are looking to save money without sacrificing flavor or quality. You can often find these ingredients in your local grocery store on sale or buy them in bulk for an even better deal. The affordability of this dish makes it a great option for families, college students, or anyone looking for an economical yet hearty meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual gathering with friends, this Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole is a surefire hit. Its simple yet comforting flavors appeal to a wide range of people, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. It can be served as a main course or as a side dish, depending on the size of your gathering. No matter the setting, you’ll find that this casserole disappears quickly, with everyone coming back for seconds.
A Classic Comfort Dish
This casserole recipe is truly a classic comfort dish. It’s the kind of food that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The crispy edges of the hashbrowns paired with the creamy, cheesy middle make it a perfect dish to serve during colder months or when you just want to enjoy a cozy meal at home. It’s simple, straightforward, and satisfying, making it a timeless favorite in many households.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Hashbrowns
While casseroles are often considered indulgent, this Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole also provides important nutritional benefits. Ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is necessary for building and repairing tissues and supporting immune function. It’s also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins, which help maintain energy levels and red blood cell production.
Hashbrowns, made from potatoes, are a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for your body. Potatoes are also rich in potassium, an important mineral that helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals.
Though this dish does contain some rich ingredients, the portion sizes are easily controllable, and you can adjust the recipe to suit your nutritional needs by using leaner beef or reducing the cheese for a lighter version. It’s all about balance, and with its hearty ingredients and customizable options, this casserole is a flexible and satisfying meal.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Comfort Dish
The Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole is an easy, hearty, and delicious dish that is perfect for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone craving a comforting and satisfying meal. Its simplicity, affordability, and customizable nature make it a staple in many kitchens. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, or a make-ahead meal for the week, this casserole fits the bill. It’s a timeless recipe that brings people together, making it a must-try for any home cook. So next time you’re in need of a comforting meal, give this Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole a try – you won’t be disappointed!