Ever walked into a home and been greeted by the intoxicating aroma of bubbling cheese and hearty beef? It’s enough to make anyone hungry! This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole brings the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal right into your kitchen with minimal fuss. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this dish is the perfect answer to your dinner prayers.
Why make this recipe
Let’s be real: who doesn’t want an easy dinner that practically cooks itself? Here’s why you’ll be smitten with this casserole:
- One-pot wonder: Less mess means more time to binge-watch that show you love.
- Affordable ingredients: Your budget will thank you while your taste buds rejoice!
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 4-5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild), divided
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and no pink remains (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat to avoid greasiness.
Prep the potatoes: Wash and thinly slice the potatoes evenly (about 1/8 inch thick). This ensures they cook through without turning to mush.
Layer it up: In the crockpot, layer half the potatoes first. Follow with half the cooked beef and onion mixture, then a portion of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and some cheese.
Mix the creamy sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this creamy goodness evenly over the layers in your crockpot.
Slow cook: Cover and cook the casserole on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is all melted and bubbly.
Final cheese touch: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover again to melt the cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives if desired before serving.
How to make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole (Overview)
Creating this masterpiece is a piece of cake! Start by browning your ground beef with onions because, honestly, who doesn’t love that sizzle? Then it’s time to layer—potatoes, beef, cheese, repeat! Mix up that creamy sauce and pour it over the layers. Slow-cook while you watch your favorite show—easy peasy! Pro tip: Don’t skip the cheese at the end; it’s the cherry on top of your cheesy potato sundae!
How to serve Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Serving this casserole is as delightful as making it! Picture this: a generous scoop of creamy, cheesy goodness piled high on your plate, with colors of golden potatoes and bubbly cheese teasing your taste buds. Pair it with a crisp salad for that crunch. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the table!
How to store Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Got leftovers? This casserole keeps well! Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Need to stash some for later? Freeze individual portions for up to two months. For reheating, just pop it in the microwave or oven until it’s hot and bubbly again – like magic!
Tips to make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Cook the beef in advance: Brown your beef the night before for a super quick assembly.
- Try other cheeses: Feel free to mix it up with Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for that gooey stretch.
- Customize spices: Add your favorite seasonings, like paprika or Italian herbs, for extra flavor.
- Make it a meal: Toss in some frozen mixed vegetables for added nutrition – stealth health feels good!
Variation
Want to switch things up? Consider using ground turkey for a lighter version, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a can of diced tomatoes for a fresh twist! For a vegan take, swap ground beef with lentils and use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Layer everything in the crockpot, cover, and store it in the fridge overnight. Just set it to cook in the morning!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
You bet! Try using your favorite cheese blend or go fancy with Gouda for a smoky twist!
How can I make it gluten-free?
Choose a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, and you’re all set for a delicious, gluten-free meal!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and no pink remains (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Wash and thinly slice the potatoes evenly (about 1/8 inch thick).
- In the crockpot, layer half the potatoes first, followed by half the cooked beef and onion mixture, then a portion of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this evenly over the layers in your crockpot.
- Cover and cook the casserole on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover again to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives before serving.