Homemade Hamburger Hash Recipe
Introduction
Homemade Hamburger Hash is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for any time of day. Combining savory ground beef with tender potatoes and vibrant vegetables, it’s an easy dish that feels like a comforting classic.

Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- ¼ cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Step 2: Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to turn golden and slightly tender.
- Step 3: Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Step 4: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the empty side and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Step 5: Stir everything together. Add garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and chili powder. Mix well.
- Step 6: Pour in the beef broth and add ketchup if using. Stir and let simmer uncovered for about 8–10 minutes, until potatoes are fully tender and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier version, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add chopped mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
- If you prefer softer potatoes, parboil them for 5 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with a fried or poached egg on top for added protein and richness.
Storage
Store leftover hamburger hash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating will help keep the potatoes moist.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free when using pure beef broth and ketchup without additives. Always check labels if purchasing store-bought ingredients.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely. You can cook the hash completely, cool it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving or warm leftovers for an easy meal.
Print
Homemade Hamburger Hash Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Homemade Hamburger Hash is a hearty and flavorful skillet dish featuring ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of savory vegetables and spices. Perfect for breakfast or dinner, this one-pan meal combines golden sautéed potatoes, diced bell peppers, and seasoned beef, all simmered together until tender and delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- ¼ cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the fat: In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat until shimmering.
- Cook the potatoes: Add the peeled and diced potatoes to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 8 to 10 minutes until they start to turn golden brown and become slightly tender.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the potatoes. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
- Brown the beef: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the empty side and cook it thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and no longer pink.
- Add seasonings: Stir all ingredients together. Mix in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried thyme or oregano, and optional chili powder, ensuring even distribution of the spices.
- Simmer with liquid: Pour in ¼ cup of beef broth or water and add the optional 2 tablespoons of ketchup. Stir well and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until the potatoes are fully tender and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Final seasoning and garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the hot hash before serving to add fresh flavor and color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
- Adding cheese on top before serving adds a creamy texture.
- For extra heat, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper.
- This dish pairs well with eggs for a complete breakfast.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hamburger hash, ground beef hash, skillet hash, breakfast hash, easy dinner, one pan meal, comfort food

