Taco Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Taco Hashbrown Casserole is a tasty and comforting dish that combines crispy hashbrowns with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 2: Add the taco seasoning to the cooked beef along with a little water as directed on the seasoning packet. Stir and simmer until the mixture is thickened.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, seasoned ground beef, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add chopped onions or bell peppers when cooking the ground beef.
- Use fresh hashbrowns or shredded potatoes if you prefer a less processed option.
- Top with sour cream, salsa, or sliced jalapeños before serving for a spicy kick.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout. This casserole also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to one month and thaw before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans, lentils, or a meat alternative, and use vegetable-based seasoning to keep it meat-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This saves time on busy days.
PrintTaco Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
A delicious and hearty Taco Hashbrown Casserole combining crispy hashbrowns, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese baked to perfection for an easy and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning packet along with any required water (typically about 2/3 cup, per seasoning instructions) to the cooked beef. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, seasoned ground beef mixture, and one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in diced onions or bell peppers with the hashbrowns.
- Use reduced-fat cheese to lower the fat content.
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot taco seasoning.
Keywords: Taco casserole, hashbrown casserole, ground beef recipe, easy casserole, baked hashbrowns, cheesy casserole
