Hamburger Hash Recipe

This Hamburger Hash recipe is the kind of dish that ticks every box for busy weeknights—easy, quick, deeply satisfying, and packed with rustic, honest-to-goodness flavor. Imagine golden, tender potatoes snuggled alongside savory seasoned ground beef, all cozied up with sweet onions and gooey melted cheddar cheese. It’s a one-skillet wonder that is supremely adaptable, comforting, and kid-friendly. Trust me: with its simple ingredients and unfussy method, this is a meal you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Russet Potatoes: Peel and chop into bite-sized pieces for a beautiful tender bite. Don’t overcook—just enough to make them fork-tender.
• Lean Ground Beef: The backbone of the dish, bringing richness and that unmistakable hamburger flavor. Go for quality; you’ll taste the difference.
• White Onion: Diced for sweetness and a subtle crunch that plays perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps the onions and potatoes get those delicious, caramelized edges. Olive oil works fine, too.
• Minced Garlic: Adds an aromatic kick—stir in just as the potatoes start to brown for the best flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A savory blend that gives depth and balances out the rich flavors.
• Salt and Cracked Black Pepper: Essential for highlighting all the other tastes—don’t skip them!
• Cheddar Cheese (Sharp): Melts beautifully through the hash, bringing creamy, tangy richness. Sharp cheddar really shines here, but use your favorite.

Tip: If you’re running low on any ingredient, check out the Variations section below for easy swaps!

Variations

Switching things up is what keeps this hash exciting meal after meal. Try these spins:

• Veggie Power: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work just as well.
• Spicy Upgrade: Toss in diced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Cheese Choices: Monterey Jack, pepper-jack, or a Mexican blend cheese all melt beautifully.
• Herbs & Extras: Fresh parsley, green onions, or a handful of chopped spinach added at the end brings freshness.

How to Make Hamburger Hash

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in those peeled, chopped potatoes and simmer until they’re fork-tender but still holding their shape—about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s richly browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat and transfer the beef to a bowl.

Step 3: Sauté Potatoes and Veggies

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add vegetable oil, then stir in your onions, boiled potatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss so everything is well-coated and let it cook, stirring often, until the potatoes and onions are golden and caramelized around the edges—about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix it in with the potatoes and onions. Sprinkle over the shredded cheddar cheese and stir through until it’s completely melted and the whole hash is glossy and irresistible.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Take the skillet off the heat and dish up generous scoops while everything’s gooey and hot.

How to Serve

This hash is hearty enough to be a meal by itself, but a few well-chosen sides really elevate dinner:

• Classic Pair: Serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply or steamed green beans for fresh contrast.
• Brunch Style: Top with a fried or poached egg—runny yolk over cheesy hash is magic.
• Comfort Food Feast: Pair with buttered toast or warm rolls to mop up every last bite.
• For Kids: Offer ketchup, hot sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream for dipping.

Garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or chopped green onions adds a nice color pop!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the hash to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

Hamburger hash freezes surprisingly well. Scoop portions into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Microwave individual servings until hot, or rewarm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Hamburger Hash is the hero of weeknight dinners: fast, filling, and filled with flavors that everyone loves. There’s joy in digging your fork into a plate of crispy-edged potatoes, hearty beef, and melty cheese, especially when it only took one pan and a teeny bit of prep. Don’t hesitate to play with the ingredients, add your own favorites, and enjoy the versatility of this classic comfort dish. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

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