Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a warm, comforting meal that layers tender potatoes, sory ground beef, onions, and a creamy, cheesy sauce—all slow-cooked to perfection. This dish is the very definition of “stick-to-your-ribs” comfort food. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, chilly weather, or feeding a hungry family with minimal hands-on effort.
This casserole combines the rustic heartiness of sliced potatoes with the rich, meaty flor of seasoned hamburger and a luscious cheese sauce that ties it all together. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows all the ingredients to meld, while keeping the potatoes fork-tender and the beef juicy.
It’s a true vintage-style family forite that never goes out of style.
Ingredients OverviewLet’s break down each component and how it contributes to the dish:
Ground Beef (Hamburger)Lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) is ideal—it adds sory flor without too much grease. Brown it before adding to the slow cooker for the best texture and flor.
Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or a plant-based ground if you’re looking to make it vegetarian.
Russet or Yukon Gold PotatoesPotatoes are the starchy base of this casserole. Russets give a softer, fluffier result, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better and he a buttery flor.
Tip: Slice potatoes thinly (about ⅛ inch) so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
OnionSliced or diced yellow or white onion adds sweetness and aroma. It blends into the dish as it cooks, enhancing depth of flor.
Cream of Mushroom SoupThis canned classic is the shortcut that creates a creamy, sory sauce. It binds the beef and potatoes into a cohesive casserole.
Alternatives: Cream of chicken or cream of cheddar soup also works well. For a homemade touch, make a quick roux-based white sauce.
MilkThins out the soup and adds creaminess. Whole or 2% milk works best for richness.
Shredded CheeseCheddar is the classic choice, melting smoothly and adding sharp flor. Monterey Jack or Colby can be blended in for extra meltiness.
Freshly shredded cheese is best—it melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Garlic Powder, Salt, and PepperSimple seasonings bring out the flor of the beef and potatoes without overpowering the dish.
Optional Add-InsFrozen peas or corn – Stir in toward the end for extra color and nutrition.
Cooked bacon – Sprinkle on top before serving for smoky crunch.
Sour cream or cream cheese – Stir in for added richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Drain excess grease and set aside.
2. Slice the Potatoes and OnionsPeel and slice potatoes thinly (about ⅛ inch thick). Slice the onion thinly or dice it, depending on your preference.
3. Mix the SauceIn a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup with milk. Whisk until smooth.
Optional: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
4. Layer in the CrockpotGrease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter.
Layer the ingredients in this order:
A third of the sliced potatoes
A third of the onion
A third of the cooked beef
A sprinkle of cheese
A spoonful or two of the soup mixture
Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
5. Cook Low and SlowCover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours, or HIGH for 3–4 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender and the cheese melted into a bubbling, golden topping.
Avoid lifting the lid often—heat retention is key in slow cooker dishes.
6. ServeLet the casserole sit for 10 minutes after cooking so it thickens slightly. Scoop into bowls or onto plates and garnish with chopped parsley, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips, Variations & SubstitutionsCheesy upgrade: Add a layer of cheese between each set of layers for extra gooeyness.
Meat swaps: Ground sausage adds spice, or go meatless with sautéed mushrooms and lentils.
Creamier sauce: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese halfway through cooking.
Crunchy topping: For texture, add crushed butter crackers or French fried onions just before serving.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free condensed soup or make a homemade version using gluten-free flour.
Serving Ideas & OccasionsThis hearty Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is perfect for:
Cold-weather dinners – Warm, filling, and rustic.
Family meals – A one-pot dish that pleases both kids and adults.
Potlucks or gatherings – Easily doubled and served straight from the slow cooker.
Meal prep – Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch or dinner.
Serve alongside:
Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
A crisp garden salad
Buttermilk biscuits or dinner rolls for dipping
A glass of iced tea or lemonade balances the richness nicely.
Nutritional & Health NotesThis casserole is rich in protein, starch, and fat—making it very satisfying and energy-dense. Each serving contains ground beef, cheese, and potatoes, which offer iron, calcium, and fiber.
To lighten the dish:
Use lean beef or turkey
Cut back on cheese or use a light cheese
Add extra vegetables like broccoli or spinach
A smaller portion with a big side of vegetables balances out the meal without sacrificing comfort.
FAQsQ1: Can I prep this casserole the night before?Yes. Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place the insert in the base and start cooking.
Q2: Can I freeze Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole?Freezing is not ideal due to the potato texture. Potatoes can become mealy when frozen and thawed. If you must freeze, do so in single portions and reheat slowly.
Q3: Can I make this with raw ground beef?It’s best to brown the beef first for flor and texture. Raw beef may release too much grease and affect the consistency of the dish.
Q4: What type of potato works best?Yukon Golds or Russets both work. Yukon Golds hold their shape better, while Russets break down slightly for a softer texture.
Q5: How can I make this casserole more florful?Add sautéed garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or beef bouillon to the meat. You can also sprinkle smoked paprika or thyme between the layers.
Q6: Can I cook this on high heat?Yes, but low and slow yields the best texture. High works if you’re short on time—just make sure potatoes are fully cooked before serving.
Q7: How do I store and reheat leftovers?Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwe or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if the casserole looks dry.
Print Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole – A Hearty, Set-It-and-Forget-It Classic
Print Recipe
A cozy slow-cooker casserole made with layers of ground beef, thin-sliced potatoes, onions, creamy mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese. A comforting, family-friendly meal perfect for busy nights.
Author: Maria Stone Ingredients Scale
1 lb ground beef
6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, sliced or diced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking spray or butter, for greasing
Optional: parsley, sour cream, extra cheese for garnish
InstructionsBrown ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drain and set aside.
Peel and slice potatoes thinly. Slice or dice onion.
In a bowl, mix soup and milk until smooth.
Grease the slow cooker insert. Layer ⅓ of potatoes, onions, beef, cheese, and soup mix. Repeat for 2 more layers.
Top with remaining cheese. Cover and cook on LOW 6–7 hours or HIGH 3–4 hours.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish as desired.
Notes
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for firmer texture. Add frozen veggies or bacon bits for variety. Not recommended for freezing.
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