Name: Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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, for garnish

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Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that warms you up on chilly days. It combines ground beef, fresh potatoes, and cheese, all cooked together in a slow cooker for a convenient and satisfying meal. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, as it requires minimal effort and allows you to enjoy the delicious smells filling your kitchen. You can set it and forget it while it slowly cooks to perfection. With layers of goodness, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a staple in many homes.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

You will love this casserole because it is so easy to make and packed with flavor. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly meal option. The slow cooking process will leave you with tender potatoes and melted cheese that blend perfectly with the seasoned beef. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less clean-up for you! This dish is also very customizable; you can add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Enjoy a cozy meal without any hassle!

How to Make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat 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) to ensure even cooking without mushiness. In the crockpot, layer half the potatoes first, then half the cooked beef and onion mixture, followed by a portion of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and some cheese. In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot to add creaminess and moisture. Cover and cook the casserole on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese has melted and is bubbly. About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover again to melt the cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives if desired before serving.

How to Serve Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

You can serve Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole hot, straight from the slow cooker. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, add some crusty bread or rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.

How to Store Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
Use lean ground beef to reduce the excess fat in the dish.
Feel free to add your favorite spices or vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, for extra flavor.
If you like a crispy topping, you can place the casserole under the broiler for a few minutes after cooking.

Recipe Variations

You can try other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor. You can also switch the ground beef with turkey or use a vegetarian substitute for a healthier option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes. Just layer them as you would fresh ones, and they may cook a bit faster.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding veggies like carrots, corn, or green beans can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just make sure they are cut small enough to cook properly.