Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a warm and hearty dish made with simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal ready for you at the end of the day. All you need to do is prep the ingredients, layer them in your crockpot, and let it cook slowly while you go about your day. The flavors blend beautifully as it cooks, and you will have a delicious casserole that everyone will love.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This casserole is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is extremely easy to make. The preparation does not take long, and you don’t have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. You just need to cook the ground beef and layer the ingredients in the crockpot.
Second, it is very versatile. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. If you prefer different vegetables or types of cheese, feel free to switch things up.
Third, this casserole is perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends. It is filling and satisfying, making it ideal for any meal of the day. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, making it a great option for meal prep.
Lastly, the use of a crockpot means you can have a delicious meal waiting for you when you get home. There is nothing like the smell of a warm and cheesy dish greeting you after a long day.
HOW TO MAKE Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
To make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole, you will need a few basic ingredients and some easy steps. Let’s dive into the specifics.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Crockpot
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
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 INSTRUCTIONS
- Cook the Ground Beef and Onion: Start by cooking the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until the beef is browned and there is no pink remaining, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and thinly slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from becoming mushy in the slow cooker.
- Layer in the Crockpot: In the crockpot, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Next, add half of the cooked beef and onion mixture. Follow this with a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and some cheese.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will add creaminess and moisture to the casserole.
- Combine Layers and Sauce: Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot. This will help to add flavor and prevents the potatoes from drying out.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot and cook the casserole on low for about 6 to 8 hours. The goal is to have the potatoes tender and the cheese melted and bubbly.
- Add Cheese Before Serving: About 15 minutes before you are ready to serve, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover the pot again to let the cheese melt.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, you can garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or chopped chives before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
HOW TO SERVE Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is best served hot right from the crockpot. You can serve it as a main dish on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables. The richness of the casserole goes nicely with a light side to balance the meal.
You can also serve it with some crusty bread or rolls to soak up any delicious sauce. Everyone will enjoy digging into this warm and cheesy dish.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
If you have leftover casserole, it’s easy to store. Allow the casserole to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or oven until warm.
You can also freeze the casserole if you want to save it for later. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
To complement your Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole, consider serving it with:
- A fresh green salad topped with your favorite dressing.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for some extra nutrients.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls for a hearty side.
- Pickles or coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
These serving suggestions enhance the meal and make it even more enjoyable for your family and guests.
VARIATIONS
You can easily customize this casserole to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Meats: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage in place of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses to change the flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or chili powder to spice things up.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free version of this casserole.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen hash browns or frozen sliced potatoes. Just note that your cooking time might vary a little.
2. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to hold all the ingredients.
4. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade white sauce if you prefer.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
You can prepare part of this casserole ahead of time, saving you time on busy days. Here’s how:
- Prep Ingredients: You can chop the onions, slice the potatoes, and cook the ground beef the night before. Store them in the fridge in separate containers.
- Layer and Refrigerate: Layer the ingredients in the crockpot the night before but don’t add the creamy sauce. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, pour in the sauce and start cooking.
- Freezing Option: Assemble the casserole without cooking it and freeze. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as directed.
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a smart choice for busy days and family gatherings. It is easy to prepare, offers room for creative variations, and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until the beef is browned and there is no pink remaining, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Wash and thinly slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/8 inch thick.
- In the crockpot, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Add half of the cooked beef and onion mixture followed by a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours 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 to let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives before serving.