Cheesy Beef and Hash Brown Casserole 🥔🧀

This hearty and comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks! With layers of savory beef, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheese, it's a dish that will warm you from the inside out. Versatile and easy to prepare, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your household. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal! 🍽️

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups frozen hash browns (or fresh, grated potatoes)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (your choice for extra cheesiness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.

   🍳 As you’re browning the beef, add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for flavor.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Mix well.

4. Layer the hash browns in the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the beef and cheese mixture over the hash browns and spread evenly.

5. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top of the casserole for an added crunch. Add the additional cheese on top if desired.

   🥯 Breadcrumbs can be enhanced with herbs or spices for more flavor. Try adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder for a tasty twist!

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

   🌿 Fresh herbs can elevate the dish! Consider adding chives or green onions for extra flavor.

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a kick! 🔥
• Healthy twist: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream to reduce fat.
• Vegetarian: Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a delicious veggie casserole.
• Make it a breakfast dish: Add a layer of scrambled eggs on top before baking for a breakfast-style casserole that's perfect for brunch!

Enjoy your cheesy, beefy goodness! 😋