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This cozy ground beef casserole is one of my favorite ways to bring everyone to the table with minimal fuss. It layers well-seasoned beef, creamy sauce, crispy potatoes, and a cheesy golden topping into a dish that’s always a hit. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this is a reliable go-to I’ve returned to time and time again.
I first made this casserole when I had leftover ground beef and hash browns in the fridge and needed something easy. Now it’s the meal my family asks for most on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: provides richness and satisfying flavor
- Onion: adds a savory aromatic base when sautéed properly
- Garlic: deepens the flavor and balances the richness
- Dried thyme and smoked paprika: bring warmth and subtle spice
- Cream of mushroom soup: creates a creamy layer that binds everything together
- Sour cream: adds tang and extra creaminess
- Beef broth: thins the sauce and enhances the beefy taste
- Frozen hash brown potatoes: make layering quick and simple
- Cheddar cheese: brings sharpness and melts beautifully
- Parmesan: adds saltiness and extra depth to the cheese blend
- Fresh parsley: adds a touch of brightness
- Panko breadcrumbs: deliver the ideal crispy topping
- Melted butter: binds the breadcrumbs and helps them brown
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Beef and Onion:
- Cook ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet over medium heat for eight minutes until beef is no longer pink and onions are tender
- Season the Mixture:
- Stir in garlic dried thyme smoked paprika salt and pepper Cook for another two minutes to release the aromas
- Mix the Sauce:
- Whisk cream of mushroom soup sour cream and beef broth in a separate bowl until smooth This forms the creamy layer
- Start the Layers:
- Spread half the frozen hash browns in the bottom of a greased nine by thirteen inch baking dish Ensure they form an even layer
- Build the Filling:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes and sprinkle with one cup of cheddar cheese
- Add Creamy Layer:
- Pour the soup mixture evenly across the top so it seeps through the beef and cheese
- Top with Remaining Potatoes:
- Spread the rest of the hash browns evenly over the top pressing down lightly
- Finish the Topping:
- Mix remaining cheddar with Parmesan and parsley and sprinkle across the potatoes
- Add Breadcrumbs:
- Combine melted butter and panko then scatter over the top of the casserole to finish
- Bake and Serve:
- Bake uncovered at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for forty five to fifty minutes until bubbling and golden Let cool briefly before serving
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Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool completely before covering Store in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat portions in the microwave or oven To freeze wrap unbaked casserole tightly with plastic and foil Freeze for up to three months and bake directly from frozen or thaw overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version Fresh diced potatoes work just as well as frozen ones Just boil them briefly until just tender Try different cheeses like mozzarella Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a bit of spice
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread make a great side For a cozy meal try it with roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans
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Cultural Notes
Casseroles became a family dinner staple in mid century America because they were affordable easy and filling This one has all those qualities with modern flair from the spices and toppings
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, fresh diced potatoes work well. Boil them until tender before layering into the dish to ensure they cook properly during baking.
- → Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and then bake when ready. Allow extra baking time if cold.
- → What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Try adding bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots. Cook them along with the ground beef and onion to ensure they're tender.
- → What cheese substitutions work well?
Cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda are great alternatives. Pepper jack adds a spicy twist.
- → How do I know when the casserole is fully baked?
It's done when the top is golden, edges are bubbling, and the center is hot with fully tender potatoes.