Hamburger Potato Casserole
Hola! If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my kitchen, it’s that simple crockpot recipes can bring the biggest smiles to the table. This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is exactly that: layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and creamy mushroom sauce all slow-cooked until bubbly and golden. Growing up, hearty casseroles were the kind of meals that made weeknights feel special, even after the busiest days. Today, this recipe has become a go-to comfort food in my home. It’s one of those easy crockpot dinners that requires little prep but delivers rich, cozy flavors every single time. If you love ground beef crockpot recipes, you’ll adore this one.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 6–8 hours |
| Total Time | 6 hrs 20 min–8 hrs 20 min |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
| Best Season | Fall and Winter |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: With the crockpot doing the work, you can enjoy your day while dinner simmers away.
- Layered comfort: Thinly sliced potatoes and ground beef create hearty layers that soak up the creamy sauce.
- Cheesy goodness: Melted cheddar cheese ties everything together in the most delicious way.
- Family-approved: Kids and adults both love the classic flavors of beef and potatoes in casserole form.
- Perfect for busy nights: This slow cooker dish is a lifesaver when you need a fuss-free dinner.
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hrs 20 min–8 hrs 20 min
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make slow cooker meal that layers tender ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese with a creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty one-pot dish delivers rich, cozy flavors with minimal effort and cleanup.
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, 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: Fresh parsley or chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.
2. Wash and slice potatoes thinly and evenly, about 1/8 inch thick, so they cook through without turning mushy.
3. In your crockpot, place half the sliced potatoes, then half the beef and onion mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients, reserving some cheese for later.
4. In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this evenly over the layers in the crockpot.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender and the casserole is bubbling.
6. About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover to melt. Garnish with parsley or chives.
Notes
Use a mandoline for perfectly even potato slices.
Don’t skip draining the beef to avoid an oily casserole.
Layer gently to keep ingredients distinct and structured.
If the casserole looks dry mid-cook, add a splash of milk or broth.
Save some cheddar for the end so it melts fresh and gooey.
Cooking on low brings out the best flavors and keeps potatoes tender.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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, 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: Fresh parsley or chopped chives for garnish
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
| Ground beef | Use lean beef to reduce excess grease, or regular for richer flavor. |
| Potatoes | Yukon golds stay creamy, while russets give a fluffier texture. |
| Onion | Sweet onion adds a mild taste, while yellow onion gives stronger flavor. |
| Cheddar cheese | Sharp cheddar provides a bolder bite, while mild is kid-friendly. |
| Cream of mushroom soup | Substitute with cream of chicken for a lighter flavor. |
| Milk | Whole milk adds creaminess, but low-fat works fine too. |
| Garlic powder | Adjust to taste, or swap with fresh minced garlic. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and slice potatoes thinly and evenly, about 1/8 inch thick, so they cook through without turning mushy.
- Layer the casserole: In your crockpot, place half the sliced potatoes, then half the beef and onion mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients, reserving some cheese for later.
- Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this evenly over the layers in the crockpot.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender and the casserole is bubbling.
- Add finishing touches: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover to melt. Garnish with parsley or chives.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mandoline for perfectly even potato slices.
- Don’t skip draining the beef to avoid an oily casserole.
- Layer gently to keep ingredients distinct and structured.
- If the casserole looks dry mid-cook, add a splash of milk or broth.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Cheese timing: Save some cheddar for the end so it melts fresh and gooey.
- Low and slow: Cooking on low brings out the best flavors and keeps potatoes tender.
- Slicing evenly: Consistency ensures all potato slices cook at the same rate.
- Rest before serving: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes so it firms up slightly.
Recipe Variations
- Mexican-style: Add taco seasoning to the beef and top with jalapeños for a zesty twist.
- Cream of chicken swap: Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a lighter sauce.
- Extra veggies: Add layers of thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers for color and nutrition.
- Bacon upgrade: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon between layers for smoky richness.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate until ready to cook. If freezing, prepare the dish in a freezer-safe container without cooking, then thaw overnight before slow cooking. Leftovers can also be frozen in individual portions for easy reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot and bubbly straight from the crockpot. Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or crusty bread to balance the richness. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing Ideas
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For drinks, try a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing iced tea. A side of roasted broccoli or green beans makes a perfect complement.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, or warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well and makes the dish lighter while still flavorful.
Do I have to peel the potatoes? No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
Can I cook this on high instead of low? Yes, but the texture of the potatoes will be slightly different. Cook on high for 3–4 hours.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup? Cream of chicken, celery, or even a homemade white sauce can work.
Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely. Thinly sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots make great additions.
Will this recipe double well? Yes, just use a larger crockpot and add extra cooking time if needed.
Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cheese and substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | 1/6 of casserole |
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbs | 25g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is everything you want in a slow cooker dinner: easy, hearty, and full of comforting flavors. Try it this week and watch it become a family favorite in your home too.
