Classic Hamburger Hash
This Classic Hamburger Hash is a comforting, one-skillet meal that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef, tender potatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese.
It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any time of the day, whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast, lunch, or dinner option.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to the table, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Simplicity and Convenience: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy individuals or families looking for a quick meal solution.
Versatile and Satisfying: The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese creates a hearty and filling dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it satisfies hunger with its comforting flavors.
Customizable Flavor Profile: This dish offers room for personalization, allowing people to tweak the seasoning or add extra ingredients like vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit their taste preferences.
Nostalgic Comfort Food: The classic combination of meat, potatoes, and cheese evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminiscent of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The rich and savory flavors of this hash are universally appealing, making it a hit with both kids and adults. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, sparking smiles and shared enjoyment.
Key Ingredients:
Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for this dish as they become tender and slightly crispy when cooked, providing a hearty and satisfying base that absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients.
Ground Beef: The star protein of the dish, ground beef adds rich, savory flavors and a satisfying, meaty texture. It’s a versatile ingredient that pairs well with the other components, making the hash both filling and flavorful.
White Onion: Chopped white onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the hash, complementing the beef and enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Olive Oil: Used for cooking the potatoes and adding a touch of richness, olive oil helps achieve a golden-brown texture, while also contributing to the dish’s flavor profile.
Minced Garlic: This aromatic ingredient infuses the hash with its distinctive, robust flavor, elevating the savory elements of the dish and balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning adds an aromatic, herby flavor that ties the dish together and enhances its savory appeal.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar provides a rich, tangy contrast to the savory beef and potatoes, melting beautifully into the dish for a creamy, indulgent finish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients, ensuring the dish is well-balanced and delicious.
Classic Hamburger Hash
Ingredients:
3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
1 pound ground beef
1 medium white onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
First Step:
Start by boiling the potato chunks until they are just tender.
In a separate skillet, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
Once cooked, drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
Second Step:
Season the meat mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add the boiled potatoes to the skillet with a bit of olive oil and cook until the potatoes are lightly browned.
Third Step:
After the potatoes are browned, add the cheddar cheese to the skillet.
Remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold the cheese into the meat and potatoes until well combined.
Fourth Step:
Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley for a touch of freshness.
Enjoy your meal!
Notes:
Potato Alternatives: If russet potatoes aren’t available, you can substitute them with Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These varieties also hold up well during cooking and offer a slightly different texture.
Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its robust flavor, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a smoky gouda to customize the taste.
Vegetable Additions: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These can be sautéed along with the onions for added depth.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat for some extra kick.
Make it a Meal: Serve the hash with a side of eggs for breakfast or alongside a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Garnishing Ideas: For a bright and fresh touch, garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or cilantro just before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives can also add an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400 | Protein: 25 grams | Fat: 25 grams | Carbohydrates: 30 grams | Fiber: 3 grams | Sodium: 400 milligrams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can prepare the hamburger hash in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to serve it, reheat the dish on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make the dish healthier, consider using lean ground beef or even ground turkey to reduce the fat content.
You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Using a reduced-fat cheese or reducing the cheese amount can also help lower calories and fat.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or use crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
Ensure you season the vegetarian protein well to maintain flavor and texture similar to the original recipe.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative to russet potatoes.
They will add a slight sweetness to the dish, creating a unique flavor profile.
Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes may cook a bit faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with this hamburger hash to make it a complete meal?
To round out the meal, consider serving the hash with a side of scrambled or fried eggs for breakfast.
For lunch or dinner, pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
You might also enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a side of fruit for added variety.
How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly and don’t become mushy?
To ensure the potatoes cook evenly, cut them into uniform, bite-sized chunks.
Begin by boiling them until just tender, which helps them hold their shape during the final cooking steps.
Avoid overcooking in the boiling stage, as this can lead to mushy potatoes.
Additionally, when adding them to the skillet, cook on medium-high heat to achieve a nice, crispy texture.
What should I do if the hash seems too dry?
If the hash appears dry, try adding a bit more olive oil or a splash of beef broth while cooking the potatoes in the skillet.
This will help keep the dish moist and add flavor.
You can also cover the skillet for a few minutes to allow steam to soften the ingredients.
How can I prevent the cheese from clumping together when added to the hash?
To prevent the cheese from clumping, remove the skillet from the heat before adding it. Stir the cheese gently and evenly into the hot ingredients.
The residual heat will melt the cheese slowly, allowing it to coat the meat and potatoes smoothly.
Shredding the cheese finely before adding it can also help with even melting.
Is there a way to enhance the flavor of the ground beef?
For extra flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with additional spices such as paprika, cumin, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce during cooking.
You can also sauté the onion and garlic until caramelized, which will deepen the flavor profile of the entire dish.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning on hand?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create a simple substitute using herbs you might already have.
A basic blend could include equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
You can also add a pinch of rosemary or sage if available, to mimic the flavor of Italian seasoning.