Should I Thaw Hash Browns for Casserole?

Yes, thawing hash browns is crucial to achieving the right texture. Using frozen hash browns directly can release excess water during cooking, making the casserole soggy. Thaw them beforehand and blot dry to remove any moisture.

Why Is My Hash Brown Casserole Soggy?

If your ground beef hash brown casserole turns out soggy, it's likely due to excess water from the hash browns or other ingredients. Always thaw and dry hash browns, and ensure vegetables like onions or peppers are sautéed to remove moisture before adding them.

Should You Rinse Shredded Potatoes Before Making Hash Browns?

Rinsing shredded potatoes is a good practice if you’re using fresh ones, as it removes excess starch. This step helps prevent clumping and promotes crispier hash browns. However, for frozen hash browns, this step isn’t necessary since they're prepped and ready to use.

What's the Difference Between Hash Browns and Southern Style Hash Browns?

Hash browns typically refer to shredded potatoes, while Southern-style hash browns are diced into small cubes. Both work in casseroles, but the texture will vary—shredded hash browns create a smoother, more cohesive dish, while diced potatoes add chunkier bites.

Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole: Easy Comfort Meal in 30 Mins

Name: Ground Beef Hash Brown Casserole: Easy, Cheesy, Family Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns (thawed); 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional); 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb lean ground beef

1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns (thawed)

1 can cream of mushroom soup

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)

1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 tsp garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Add chopped onions and bell peppers; cook until softened.

4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread an even layer of thawed hash browns.

6. Pour beef mixture over hash browns and spread evenly.

7. Top with remaining cheese.

8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

9. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

10. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can use ground turkey or a plant-based substitute.

Try pepper jack or gouda for different flavor twists.

Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy meals.

Author: Quinto
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 410
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 75mg