If you’ve been searching for a dish that wraps up comfort, simplicity, and downright deliciousness all in one pot, look no further than this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy day — layers of tender potatoes, savory browned hamburger, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheese come together effortlessly in your slow cooker. Whether you’re feeding a family or planning for leftovers, this casserole hits all the right notes with ease and plenty of crowd-pleasing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe comes together with a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a starring role in the dish’s rich taste and satisfying texture. From the hearty ground beef to the creamy mushroom soup, every component is essential.
- 5 small potatoes: Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for creamy yet firm slices that hold up well during slow cooking.
- 2 lbs ground beef (browned): Browning adds flavor depth and texture while providing a hearty protein base.
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup: This creamy base binds the casserole and adds savory mushroom richness.
- 1 cup milk: Thins the soup mixture just right, making the casserole moist and luscious.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the beef and potatoes.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese: Cheese brings gooey, melty goodness that crowns each layer perfectly.
How to Make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef. This step builds a savory foundation for the casserole. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming greasy, and set the beef aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
While the beef is cooking, peel your potatoes and slice them into thin rounds. Thin slices help them cook evenly and become tender without falling apart. This prep step is key for achieving that perfect bite of potato in every spoonful.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until fully blended into a creamy sauce. This mixture is what will keep your casserole moist and flavorful throughout the slow cooking process.
Step 4: Prepare the Crockpot
To prevent sticking, spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. It might seem like a small detail but it makes serving and cleanup so much easier.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
Now for the fun part! Start by layering a portion of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the crockpot. Next, add a layer of the cooked ground beef, followed by some of your creamy soup mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheese over these layers. Repeat this pattern until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top to create that irresistible melty cap.
Step 6: Cook the Casserole
Cover your crockpot and set it on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooker will gently soften the potatoes while melding all those flavors together into one harmonious dish. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbling with cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Turn off the crockpot and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before scooping out portions. This rest time helps the dish thicken slightly, making serving easier and flavors richer. Grab a big spoon, plate it up, and enjoy!
How to Serve Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream can also complement the creamy mushroom sauce beautifully, adding a little tang to balance the richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty all on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette adds a lovely contrast. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli bring vibrant color and a healthy crunch to the plate, making your meal both balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For potluck gatherings, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins for charming, personalized servings. You can also layer it in a cast iron skillet and broil the top at the end for a golden, slightly crispy cheese crust that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), cool the casserole completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 or 4 days, making a perfect ready-to-go meal.
Freezing
This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For a quick fix, microwave individual servings but keep in mind the oven will help retain the creamy texture and melted cheese best.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes in this recipe?
Absolutely! While waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold up the best, you can experiment with red potatoes or even Russets—just slice them a bit thinner to ensure they cook fully.
Is it possible to add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Adding diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas into the layers boosts nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to cut them small enough to cook through during the 3-4 hour crockpot time.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble everything the night before and keep the crockpot in the fridge overnight. Just add the cheese topping right before cooking, or cook fully and reheat on the day of serving.
What cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar cheese is a beloved choice for its bold flavor and melting qualities, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda for a different twist.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the potatoes are tender throughout—test them by piercing with a fork. Once soft, the flavors will be beautifully melded and the cheese melted.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is a true treasure for anyone craving comfort food with minimal fuss. It’s hearty, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for keeping the family happy any day of the week. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the warmth and joy it brings to your dinner table. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3.5 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Featuring layers of tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheese, it’s an easy-to-make, one-pot meal that cooks slowly to bring all flavors together beautifully.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 5 small waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold recommended), peeled and thinly sliced
Ground Beef
- 2 lbs ground beef, browned and drained
Sauce
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack recommended)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds to ensure they cook evenly and become tender during slow cooking.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking during cooking.
- Layer the Ingredients: Begin layering the casserole by adding a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of browned ground beef. Pour a portion of the soup mixture over these layers and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve and Enjoy: After cooking, turn off the crockpot and let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Then, scoop out individual portions and serve.
- Optional Serving Suggestions: Complement this casserole with a fresh green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette, or serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans. Refreshing iced tea or lemonade make perfect beverage pairings.
- Optional Ingredient Variations: Enhance the casserole by adding vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers during layering for added flavor and texture.
- Storage and Reheating: Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions as needed.
Notes
- Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold to help the slices hold their shape while cooking.
- Check for doneness starting at 3 hours; cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model.
- Try different cheeses such as sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
- Spraying the crockpot prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Feel free to customize with additional vegetables to make the casserole more hearty and nutritious.
