One sizzling pan, a handful of simple ingredients, and voilà—it’s magic! That’s how I feel every time I whip up this Hamburger Hash. In just 35 minutes, you can transform ground beef, crispy potatoes, and colorful veggies into a satisfying comfort dish that brings everyone to the table. This recipe is not only a total crowd-pleaser but also an excellent way to clear out leftovers from your fridge. Plus, with its quick prep time, you'll have more moments to enjoy with your loved ones. Are you ready to dive into a deliciously hearty meal? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Hamburger Hash a Must-Try?
Simplicity is key: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish pulls together effortlessly, making it perfect for any home cook.
Versatility shines: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add spices to match your taste preferences.
Comforting flavors come to life when the savory beef mingles with tender potatoes and crisp peppers.
Quick to prepare: In only 35 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to go, perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd favorite: Whether for family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty hash is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings, like those for a good old-fashioned skillet meal. For a gourmet twist, try topping with a fried egg or visit Comfort Food Classics for more ideas to elevate your dishes!
Hamburger Hash Ingredients
Make this classic dish even more enticing with these simple ingredients!
For the Base
• Ground beef – the star of Hamburger Hash, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Medium potatoes – diced for a hearty texture that soaks up all the delicious juices.
• Medium onion – adds a sweet aroma when cooked until translucent.
• Bell pepper – brings vibrant color and a mild crunch for extra freshness.
For Cooking
• Cooking oil – use a neutral oil for sautéing, allowing the ingredients to shine through.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors in your Hamburger Hash.
• Black pepper – adds just the right kick to make every bite exciting!
Feel free to add in your favorite herbs or spices to elevate your Hamburger Hash game!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hamburger Hash
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough to sauté. This should take about 2 minutes. The smell of the oil warming will set the stage for the delicious Hamburger Hash you’re about to create.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula for even cooking. Cook the beef for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns a rich brown color with no pink remaining. This browning not only enhances the flavor but also forms the hearty base of your Hamburger Hash.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Once the beef is browned, stir in 1 medium diced onion and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This will infuse your Hamburger Hash with a savory sweetness that complements the beef beautifully. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Veggies
Now it’s time to mix in the 2 medium diced potatoes and 1 diced bell pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients, allowing the vibrant colors to come together. Cook this mixture for about 2–3 minutes, enabling the potatoes to begin softening and soak up the flavors.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Season your Hamburger Hash with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything well, ensuring the seasoning coats all the ingredients evenly. The spices will enhance the dish’s savory profile, making each bite more satisfying and delicious.
Step 6: Cook for Tenderness
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes, giving it a gentle stir every 5 minutes. This step will help cook the potatoes thoroughly, ensuring they become tender and fully infused with the flavors of the ground beef and vegetables.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the potatoes are tender and the mixture is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your Hamburger Hash hot, optionally topping each serving with a fried egg for added flavor. This comforting dish is perfect for enjoying any time of day, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Expert Tips for Hamburger Hash
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Choose Quality Beef: Use a high-quality ground beef for better flavor. Leaner cuts may be healthier, but they can result in a drier Hamburger Hash.
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Perfect Potato Timing: Cut potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking. Avoid adding them too late, or they won't get tender during the cooking process.
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Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite vegetables or leftovers! Just remember to adjust cooking times to suit firmer veggies.
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Season Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper; you can always add more later. This ensures your Hamburger Hash isn't overly salty at the first taste.
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Lid On for Tenderness: Keep the lid on the skillet while cooking to trap moisture, which helps soften the potatoes and melds all flavors beautifully.
Hamburger Hash Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own—let flavors dance and textures shine!
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Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh, seasoned with your favorite spices for added depth.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to infuse a delightful heat that awakens the palate. Spice lovers will rejoice!
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Herbaceous Touch: Sprinkle in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of freshness and color.
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Cheesy Goodness: Top with shredded cheese (like cheddar or pepper jack) in the last few minutes of cooking until melted, adding richness and creaminess.
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Sweet Potatoes: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness and a healthier twist packed with vitamins.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving to create a rich, luxurious texture.
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Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully, enhancing the umami experience.
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Onion Variety: Use red or green onions instead of yellow for a milder flavor, adding a pop of color to your dish.
Customize this Hamburger Hash to suit your taste buds! If you're looking for more ideas, check out Comfort Food Classics for a range of delightful dishes that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Hamburger Hash
Fridge: Store leftover Hamburger Hash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before refrigerating for optimal freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the Hamburger Hash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy reheating later; it’ll be a lifesaver on busy days!
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, about 3-5 minutes, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture if needed.
Make Ahead Options
These Hamburger Hash ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can dice the potatoes and bell pepper up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container with a splash of water to prevent browning. You can also cook the ground beef and onions ahead of time, refrigerating them for up to 3 days, to save even more time. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat everything in a skillet, add the potatoes and bell pepper, and follow the final cooking steps as outlined. This way, you’ll still have a delicious, hearty dish with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Hamburger Hash?
Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing your comforting Hamburger Hash with these delightful sides and drinks.
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Crispy Side Salad: Fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch, perfectly balancing the hearty flavors of the hash.
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Garlic Bread Sticks: Soft, buttery garlic bread brings a delightful chewiness, great for mopping up every last bit of deliciousness.
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Ranch-Style Corn: Sweet and savory corn adds a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that complements the savory notes of the hash.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy, caramelized outer layers of Brussels sprouts add a delightful texture and earthy flavor that works well with the dish.
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Fried Eggs: Topping your Hamburger Hash with a lightly fried egg creates an indulgent breakfast twist that enhances the dish's richness.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade offers a citrusy zing that cuts through the richness of the hash, cleansing your palate with each sip.
Whichever sides you choose, these pairings promise to make your Hamburger Hash experience even more enjoyable!
Hamburger Hash Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for Hamburger Hash?
Absolutely! For Hamburger Hash, I recommend using medium-sized Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They have the perfect balance of starchiness and creaminess, which helps achieve that comforting texture. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes, as these can affect the flavor of your dish.
How should I store leftover Hamburger Hash?
Very simply! Allow the Hamburger Hash to cool before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those delicious leftovers later in the week. Just make sure to reheat it to at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety!
Can I freeze Hamburger Hash?
Of course! To freeze Hamburger Hash, let it cool to room temperature, then spoon it into an airtight freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat thoroughly in a skillet or microwave.
What should I do if my potatoes are not cooking through?
Very good question! If you find that your potatoes aren't tender after cooking, check to ensure they're cut into even-sized pieces to promote uniform cooking. If they still feel hard, simply cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water can also help create steam for faster cooking.
Is there anything I need to consider for food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you or anyone you're serving has dietary restrictions, you can easily customize the Hamburger Hash. For a gluten-free option, it's naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your cooking oil or any added seasonings. Additionally, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option. If you have vegetarian preferences, replace the meat with a mix of beans and extra vegetables for a hearty dish that's still satisfying!
Satisfy Your Cravings with Easy Hamburger Hash Delight
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 pound ground beef the star of Hamburger Hash, providing rich flavor and protein
- 2 medium potatoes diced for a hearty texture
- 1 medium onion adds a sweet aroma when cooked
- 1 medium bell pepper brings vibrant color and crunch
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil use a neutral oil for sautéing
- 1 teaspoon salt enhances flavors in the dish
- 1 teaspoon black pepper adds a kick of flavor
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Hamburger Hash
- Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart for even cooking. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in 1 medium diced onion and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Mix in 2 medium diced potatoes and 1 diced bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper, stirring well.
- Cover and reduce heat to low, cooking for about 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally topping each serving with a fried egg.
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