Description
Cheesy Bacon Burger Casserole
Swap the dough for a crispy potato crust in this hearty variation.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
2 cups shredded hash browns
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices bacon, crumbled
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread hash browns in a greased baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
Cook ground beef and layer over hash browns. Top with sour cream, cheese, and bacon.
Bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tip: Add chopped chives for extra flavor.
#PotatoBurgerCasserole
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time.
- Prepare the Crust: Thoroughly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread the 2 cups of shredded hash browns in the dish, pressing down lightly. Pre-bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to start the crisping process.
- Cook the Beef: While the crust bakes, brown 1 lb of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Layer the Ingredients: Once the hash brown crust is out of the oven, layer the cooked ground beef evenly over the top. Dollop the 1/2 cup of sour cream over the beef and gently spread it. Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by the 4 slices of crumbled bacon.
- Final Bake: Return the assembled dish to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and the edges are a deep golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set for cleaner portions.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a classic diner feel, add pickles, sliced red onion, and a side of ketchup or burger sauce for dipping. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also make excellent, easy accompaniments.
How-to Summary
Create a crispy hash brown crust, top with cooked beef, sour cream, cheese, and bacon, then bake until golden. A simple, crowd-pleasing twist on burger night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen hash browns?
Yes, frozen shredded hash browns work perfectly. There’s no need to thaw them; use them directly from the freezer for the crust.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef while cooking. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 5-10 minutes to the final baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or in an air fryer to help restore the crispy texture of the hash brown crust.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative are all excellent substitutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Beef: Failing to drain the fat from the cooked ground beef will make the final dish greasy.
- Skipping the Pre-Bake: The initial 10-minute bake for the hash browns is crucial for creating a stable, crispy base. Don’t omit it.
- Overloading with Wet Ingredients: If adding vegetables like onions or mushrooms, sauté them first to remove excess moisture that could make the crust soggy.
- Using Pre-shredded Cheese: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as smoothly. For the best texture, shred a block of cheese yourself.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon Burger Casserole successfully captures the irresistible flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger in a comforting, easy-to-serve format. By swapping the bun for a crispy hash brown crust, it offers a satisfying texture and transforms a weeknight favorite into a simple, oven-baked meal. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for feeding a family, potlucks, or meal prepping. Give it a try for a delicious and hassle-free dinner solution.
