This old-fashioned hamburger and hash brown casserole delivers all the cozy, nostalgic comfort you crave, tasting just like a deconstructed cheeseburger in casserole form! We’ve given this family favorite a healthy makeover by using 96% lean ground beef and unsalted cream of mushroom soup, creating a healthy cheeseburger casserole that is low-sodium friendly without sacrificing that rich, classic flavor.
Using frozen shredded hash browns means prep work is a breeze, while a touch of nutritional yeast adds a wonderful savory depth. For the complete hamburger flavor experience, it is great served with a dollop of our homemade special sauce!
It's the perfect hearty, feel-good dinner for busy weeknights. If you love this dish, be sure to explore more of our healthy casserole recipes for your next family meal!
This high protein cheeseburger casserole balances satisfying flavor with a smarter nutritional profile by utilizing leaner meats and controlled sodium. It provides a hearty dose of nutrients to keep you full, making simple swaps to reduce unnecessary saturated fat while still tasting like classic comfort food.
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While this recipe is a classic ground beef and potato bake, John Wayne and Dolly Parton casseroles typically use a biscuit or crust base and feature southwestern flavors like sour cream, taco seasoning, and green chiles. This version is a more traditional, creamy Midwestern-style bake.
Yes! If you prefer a casserole without soup, you can make a quick homemade sauce using a simple roux of flour and skim milk, seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and a touch of low-sodium beef broth to achieve that same creamy texture.
The key is to thaw the frozen hash browns completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth before mixing them into the casserole.
If you love the comforting, baked layers of our hamburger and hash brown casserole, you'll also enjoy exploring our collection of low sodium casserole recipes that never skimp on flavor.
Just like this cheesy hash brown bake, you can easily turn a simple pound of meat into a nutritious feast by checking out more of our healthy ground beef recipes.
Doubling for a Crowd Text: If you are hosting a party or feeding a large family, this easy hamburger and hash brown casserole is the perfect make-ahead meal to satisfy a hungry crowd. Simply double the core ingredients below and bake the mixture in an extra-large roasting pan or a 17x10 casserole dish for a stress-free, high-protein dinner.
Recipe yields 6 servings
Set an oven rack in the middle position in the oven. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
Place the thawed hash browns in a large sheet of cheese cloth or a clean kitchen towel and wrap them tightly. Squeeze out as much of the excess moisture as possible (Note: this will help prevent the casserole from getting soupy); set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for 8 to 10 minutes, breaking up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Reduce heat to medium. Drain and discard excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add plum tomatoes and black pepper and cook for 1 minute.
Transfer beef mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the thawed shredded hash browns, two (2) cans of unsalted cream of mushroom soup, skim milk, ¼ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese and nutritional yeast.
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread into an even layer. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the hash browns are golden brown and tender. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese on top and the toasted sesame seeds and bake for 5 more minutes, until the cheese is melted.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve topped with chopped romaine lettuce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Since this casserole is quite rich and filling on its own, it pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Serve it alongside a simple tossed green salad with a light vinaigrette, or some lightly roasted green beans or steamed broccoli.
You can easily substitute 99% lean ground turkey or ground chicken to change up the protein while keeping the dish lean.
If you aren't a fan of mushrooms, unsalted cream of chicken or cream of celery soup will work perfectly in its place.
Feel free to swap the cheddar for reduced-fat Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder, gooey cheese finish.
If you loved the rich, savory flavors of our hamburger and hash brown casserole, you'll want to add even more of our satisfying, lean beef meals to your weekly rotation. Be sure to explore our collection of healthy burger recipes or delicious, high-protein options that satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track!