When you need a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort, Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is the answer. This simple, budget-friendly dish combines layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
With just a few pantry staples and your trusty slow cooker, you can have a delicious casserole ready to warm your family’s hearts and bellies. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 6 medium russet potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and garlic.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
- Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray.
- Layer ⅓ of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle with a small handful of cheese.
- Add ⅓ of the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Pour ⅓ of the creamy sauce over the beef.
- Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Cook the Casserole
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Once done, garnish with dried parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side salad or bread.
Tips
- Thinly Slice Potatoes: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Veggie Boost: Add a layer of sliced carrots, mushrooms, or green beans for extra vegetables.
- Crispy Top: If you prefer a browned, crispy cheese topping, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish and broil for 3-5 minutes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool the casserole completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in the microwave, or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef for some heat.
- Breakfast Casserole: Replace the ground beef with cooked breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs to make it a hearty breakfast dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
- Sauce Swap: Use cream of celery or cheddar soup for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Details
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 26g
FAQ
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes! You can use frozen diced or shredded potatoes (like hash browns) as a time-saving alternative.
Do I need to cook the ground beef first?
Yes, browning the beef before layering ensures it’s fully cooked and enhances the flavor of the dish.
What’s the best type of potato for this recipe?
Russet potatoes work best for their starchy texture, but Yukon Golds are also a great choice for a creamier result.
Can I make this casserole in the oven?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 375°F for 60-70 minutes, covering with foil for the first 40 minutes.
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“Make dinner easy with this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole! Layers of ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese sauce cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.”
