Easy Hamburger Hash Recipe – Comfort Food Made Simple
If you’re searching for a hearty, budget-friendly, and quick weeknight dinner, this easy hamburger hash recipe is the perfect solution. A comforting skillet dish made with ground beef, potatoes, onions, and peppers, this recipe is all about flavor, texture, and convenience.
Hamburger hash has been a family favorite for generations, known as a one-pan meal that stretches simple ingredients into something satisfying and delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy dinner, a brunch side, or even meal prep for busy days, this hamburger hash is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare potatoes – Place diced potatoes in salted boiling water and parboil for 5 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook ground beef – In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and set beef aside.
- Sauté vegetables – In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp oil. Stir in onions, peppers, and garlic. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add potatoes – Add parboiled potatoes to the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy.
- Combine everything – Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in smoked paprika and thyme. Mix well and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
- Finish & serve – Top with shredded cheddar (if desired) and fresh parsley. Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Tips & Variations
- Cheesy hash: Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a melty upgrade.
- Southwest style: Add corn, black beans, and chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Breakfast hash: Top with fried or poached eggs for a hearty morning meal.
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetable boost: Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach work great here too.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil Option: Use a nonstick skillet and cooking spray instead of 3 tbsp oil.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This easy hamburger hash recipe is the ultimate one-pan wonder. Serve it with a crisp side salad, warm dinner rolls, or topped with eggs for a breakfast-for-dinner option. It’s filling, flavorful, and family-approved!
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, brunch gathering, or meal prepping, this skillet hash is a go-to comfort food you’ll come back to again and again.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make hamburger hash ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
Q2: Do I have to parboil the potatoes?
Parboiling helps them cook evenly and crisp up faster, but you can skip it if you dice potatoes very small.
Q3: Can I freeze hamburger hash?
Yes. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet.
Q4: What type of ground meat works best?
Beef is classic, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
Q5: How do I keep my potatoes crispy?
Don’t overcrowd the skillet and let the potatoes cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring.
