Creamy ground beef and hashbrown casserole is the definition of cozy, homestyle comfort food. It combines tender ground beef, crispy shredded hashbrowns, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese into one irresistible dish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole is rich, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy families or potluck gatherings.

What Is Creamy Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole?

Creamy ground beef and hashbrown casserole is a hearty baked dish that layers seasoned beef with frozen hashbrowns, cream soup, sour cream, and shredded cheese. The result is a golden, creamy, and slightly crisp casserole that’s both filling and comforting. It’s often enjoyed as an all-in-one meal that requires little effort but delivers big on flavor.

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Reasons to Try Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

Comfort Food Classic – Creamy, cheesy, and savory—everything you want in a home-cooked meal.
Perfect for All Meals – Works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Quick to Assemble – Uses frozen hashbrowns and pantry staples for convenience.
Family Approved – Loved by kids and adults alike for its mild, comforting flavor.
Freezer-Friendly – Easy to make ahead and store for later meals.
Minimal Cleanup – One dish provides a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 bag (30 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns (thawed)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup milk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Prepare Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

Brown the beef – Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add aromatics – Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Mix the creamy sauce – In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and seasoning. Whisk until smooth.
Combine ingredients – Add thawed hashbrowns, cooked beef, and half of the cheese to the creamy sauce mixture. Stir until evenly coated.
Assemble the casserole – Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
Add the cheese topping – Sprinkle remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the top.
Bake until golden – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool slightly before serving – Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing for clean servings.

What Goes Well With Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

Fresh Green Salad – Adds freshness to balance the creamy richness.
Steamed Broccoli – A light side that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
Garlic Bread – Great for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables – Adds texture and a burst of flavor to the meal.
Pickled Beets or Coleslaw – Offer a tangy contrast to the hearty casserole.

Key Tips for Making Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

Thaw hashbrowns completely – Ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
Drain beef well – Removing excess grease keeps the dish from being oily.
Mix cheeses – Combining cheddar and mozzarella creates a balanced melt and flavor.
Add milk gradually – Adjust the sauce thickness before baking to your preference.
Use full-fat sour cream – Enhances creaminess and gives a richer texture.
Cover while baking initially – Helps retain moisture and prevents over-browning.
Rest before serving – Allows the casserole to set and flavors to deepen.

Creative Variations of Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

Bacon and Onion Twist – Add crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor.
Spicy Southwest Version – Mix in diced green chilies or jalapeños for heat.
Vegetable Mix-In – Add peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for color and nutrition.
Cream of Chicken Swap – Replace mushroom soup with chicken for a lighter flavor.
Taco-Style Version – Add taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips.
Breakfast Casserole – Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a morning-friendly option.

Storage Guidelines for Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing – Wrap the baked casserole tightly in foil or a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Defrosting – Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Avoid soggy texture – Reheat uncovered for a crisp topping.
Label before storing – Helps keep track of freshness and freezing dates.

Reheating Tips for Ground Beef and Hashbrown Casserole

Oven Method – Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until hot.
Microwave Method – Heat individual servings for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Skillet Method – Warm on low heat with a splash of milk to keep the creamy texture.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 470 kcal
Protein: 26 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 740 mg
Calcium: 210 mg

FAQs

Should I thaw hashbrowns before making ground beef and hashbrown casserole?

Yes, hashbrowns should be thawed before mixing them into the casserole. Thawing removes excess moisture, helping the casserole cook evenly and develop a crisp, golden top. If used frozen, they can release water while baking and make the dish soggy.

How can I make my hashbrown casserole creamier?

To make your casserole extra creamy, add a bit more sour cream, milk, or cream of mushroom soup to the mixture before baking. You can also mix in some cream cheese for a velvety texture and richer flavor.

Why is my hashbrown casserole watery?

If your casserole turns out watery, it’s likely due to unthawed hashbrowns or undrained ground beef. Always thaw the hashbrowns completely and drain the beef after browning. Baking uncovered for the last 10 minutes helps evaporate excess moisture and gives a crisp top layer.

Can I make creamy hashbrown casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole is great for meal prep. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then bake as directed for a fresh, creamy finish.

Final Words

Creamy ground beef and hashbrown casserole is a dish that perfectly blends comfort and convenience. Its creamy texture, cheesy layers, and hearty beef filling make it a family favorite for all occasions. Whether served at breakfast or dinner, this easy casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite—ideal for busy nights, gatherings, or simply when you crave something truly comforting.