01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
03 - Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until onion is softened.
04 - Stir Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika into meat mixture. Remove skillet from the heat.
05 - In a large mixing bowl, blend thawed hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, sour cream, and 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese until fully integrated.
06 - Fold seasoned beef mixture into hash brown blend, ensuring even distribution.
07 - Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
08 - Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
09 - Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
10 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped pickles if desired.