Hamburger Hash is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. This dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables in a one-skillet wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether served as a quick dinner, a satisfying breakfast-for-dinner option, or a versatile leftover meal, hamburger hash is as customizable as it is delicious. Let’s dive into this budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 3 medium potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes (Yukon gold or russet work well)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, hot sauce, or ketchup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Once the beef is browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes), drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining olive oil or butter, then toss in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir everything together.
- Sprinkle in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)
- If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the hash and cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot. Enjoy as is or with your favorite toppings like sour cream or hot sauce.
Tips
- Cut Potatoes Evenly: To ensure the potatoes cook evenly, dice them into uniform pieces.
- Pre-Cook Potatoes: For faster preparation, parboil the potatoes for 5 minutes before adding them to the skillet.
- Add a Fried Egg: Top each serving with a fried egg for an indulgent breakfast-style twist.
- Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce when cooking the beef.
- Customize Veggies: Use what you have—zucchini, mushrooms, or even frozen mixed vegetables can work in this dish.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Freezing: Freeze the hash in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet.
Variations
- Southwestern Style: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Cheeseburger Hash: Mix in crumbled cooked bacon and serve with a drizzle of ketchup and mustard.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version.
- Breakfast Hash: Add diced breakfast sausage and serve with scrambled eggs for a classic breakfast hash.
Nutrition Details (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
FAQ
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe and add a hint of natural sweetness.
2. What’s the best way to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the potatoes, and avoid stirring them too frequently to allow a crispy crust to form.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the hash ahead and reheat it in a skillet or microwave. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy days.
4. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Absolutely! Frozen diced or hash brown potatoes are a great shortcut. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
5. What can I serve with hamburger hash?
It’s a meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
