5. Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the hash brown and beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding diced bell peppers, peas, corn, or green beans to the filling.
- Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle crushed crackers, crispy fried onions, or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream soup and ensure that your hash browns are free of any added gluten.