Description
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make slow cooker meal layering tender ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese with a creamy mushroom sauce. This hearty one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering rich, cozy flavors with minimal effort and cleanup.
Ingredients
Main 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
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: 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.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and thinly slice the potatoes evenly (about 1/8 inch thick) to ensure even cooking without mushiness.
- Layer the ingredients: 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 layering with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
- Mix and pour sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot to add creaminess and moisture.
- Cook on low: 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.
- Add finishing cheese and herbs: 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.
Notes
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Layer ingredients gently to keep textures distinct and maintain the casserole’s structure.
- If the casserole looks dry halfway through cooking, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Cooking on the low setting helps meld flavors and tenderize potatoes without overcooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American