Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole has been a lifesaver in my kitchen more times than I can count. I still remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma of savory beef and creamy potatoes filled the house, and everyone gathered around, eager for dinner. It’s truly a comforting dish, reminiscent of simpler times and hearty home-cooked meals. This easy Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is my go-to for busy weeknights, offering a delicious, fuss-free solution when I need a satisfying meal without all the effort. The tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and rich, cheesy sauce make it an instant hit with both kids and adults. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
I genuinely believe this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole will become a staple in your home. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, offering incredible convenience and flavor.
- It boasts a wonderfully rich and savory taste that satisfies everyone.
- Prep time is minimal, making it perfect for your busiest days.
- This hearty crockpot beef and potato meal is packed with protein and vegetables.
- It’s incredibly budget-friendly, stretching your grocery dollars further.
- The whole family will adore this comforting, cheesy dish.
- It’s an ultimate easy weeknight dinner solution.
- This hearty crockpot beef and potato meal requires just one pot, simplifying cleanup.
Ingredients for Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful slow cooker ground beef potato bake. I’ve found that using quality components truly elevates the flavor of this dish, especially for a fantastic Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole with cream of mushroom soup.
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular) – I prefer lean for less grease, but regular works too.
- 4-5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick) – consistency in slicing ensures even cooking.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – adds a foundational savory flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – this is key for the creamy sauce in our Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole.
- 1/2 cup milk – helps thin the soup to the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for that essential aromatic kick.
- Salt, to taste – season generously, but remember the soup adds some salt.
- Pepper, to taste – freshly ground is always best!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild), divided – cheese makes everything better, especially this cheesy hamburger potato bake crock pot.
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives, for garnish (optional) – adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
How to Make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Learning how to make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is surprisingly simple, and I promise you’ll love the hands-off cooking experience. Just follow these steps, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the comforting aroma of this hearty meal.
- Step 1: First, in a large skillet, brown your ground beef and the chopped onion over medium heat. I usually aim for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Make sure to drain any excess fat thoroughly; this prevents your casserole from becoming greasy.
- Step 2: While your beef is browning, prepare your potatoes. Thinly slice the russet or Yukon gold potatoes to about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices are key here for even cooking, ensuring every bite of your Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is perfectly tender.
- Step 3: Now, let’s start layering! Place half of your thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. This forms a delicious base.
- Step 4: Next, spread half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the potato layer. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
- Step 5: Repeat the layering process: add the remaining sliced potatoes, followed by the rest of the beef and onion mixture, and another layer of cheddar cheese. This structured layering is essential for a well-balanced Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole.
- Step 6: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the can of cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is completely smooth. This creates the creamy sauce that will bind everything together.
- Step 7: Pour this creamy soup mixture evenly over all the layered ingredients in your crockpot. Make sure it seeps down into all the nooks and crannies to ensure every component gets coated. This is how to make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole truly moist and flavorful.
- Step 8: Cover your slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours. The exact time will depend on your slow cooker and how thick your potato slices are. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce is bubbly and hot.
- Step 9: About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Re-cover the crockpot and let it cook for those final minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, irresistible topping.
- Step 10: If you’re feeling fancy, garnish your finished Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole with fresh parsley or chopped chives before serving. This adds a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. These pro tips will help you achieve the most flavorful and perfectly cooked Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole every single time, making it a simple slow cooker ground beef potato dish you’ll be proud to serve.
- Don’t skip browning the beef and onions; this step adds a crucial layer of flavor.
- Slice your potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they all cook through at the same rate.
- Resist the urge to lift the lid too often; each peek extends the cooking time.
- For an extra cheesy kick, try adding a layer of cream cheese or a different type of shredded cheese.
- Always drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole?
The real secret lies in the even slicing of potatoes and not over-mixing the sauce. This ensures a consistent texture and prevents the casserole from becoming watery. Following these steps consistently makes for the best Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe.
Can I make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (without cooking) in your slow cooker insert, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time if starting from cold. This makes it a fantastic make ahead crockpot hamburger potato casserole.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole?
The most common errors are uneven potato slicing and not draining the beef. To prevent a mushy casserole, ensure potatoes are uniformly thin. Also, always drain the fat after browning the ground beef to keep your Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole from being greasy.
Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Once your delicious Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is ready, you might be wondering how best to serve this hearty dish. I find it’s incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides, making it a perfect family friendly crockpot hamburger potato dinner.
For a balanced meal, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully. Another fantastic option is steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, which add a lovely pop of color and extra nutrients. This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is so satisfying on its own, but these simple additions really complete the plate.
Nutrition Facts for Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
I always find it helpful to have an idea of the nutritional breakdown for my favorite dishes, and this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is no exception. While these are estimates, they provide a good overview of what you’re enjoying per serving (recipe makes 6 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. This hearty slow cooker ground beef potato bake is a satisfying meal.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
One of the best things about this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is how well it stores and reheats, making it an ideal make ahead crockpot hamburger potato casserole for busy weeks. After enjoying your delicious meal, any leftovers should be allowed to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
Once cooled, transfer the casserole into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning for longer, this cheesy hamburger potato bake also freezes beautifully. Simply place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container or wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, you can use a microwave for individual servings, heating in 1-2 minute increments until warmed through. For larger portions, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, covered with foil, until hot and bubbly. This method helps maintain the casserole’s texture and prevents it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
What is a crockpot hamburger potato casserole?
A Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, layered dish cooked in a slow cooker. It typically combines seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and often a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s designed for minimal effort, allowing the slow cooker to meld all the flavors into a delicious, hearty meal. Many people consider it a complete one-pot dinner.
Can I substitute ingredients in my Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! I often switch things up. For instance, you can use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option. Different types of cheese like Colby Jack or mozzarella work well too. If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or celery soup can be used, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables, too!
How do I prevent my potatoes from being undercooked?
The key to perfectly cooked potatoes in your Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is consistent, thin slicing. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick. Also, resist the urge to lift the lid of your slow cooker during cooking, as this lets out heat and extends the cooking time. Ensure your slow cooker is set to the correct temperature, and cook for the full recommended time until the potatoes are fork-tender.
What are some good side dishes for a Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole?
Since this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is quite hearty on its own, I usually pair it with something light and fresh. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette is always a winner, as it cuts through the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or even a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce also complement this simple slow cooker ground beef potato dish beautifully without overpowering it.
Variations of Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole You Can Try
I love how adaptable this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe is! It’s super easy to tweak it to fit different tastes or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own; that’s part of the fun of cooking at home.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, I often add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture. A dash of hot sauce in the creamy soup mixture also works wonders, transforming it into a zesty Crockpot cheesy hamburger potato casserole.
- Vegetable Boost: You can easily sneak in more veggies! Try adding a layer of sliced bell peppers, frozen corn, or even a can of drained diced tomatoes to the casserole. This not only adds nutrients but also extra flavor and texture to your slow cooker ground beef potato bake.
- Cheesy Deluxe: If you’re a cheese lover like me, experiment with different cheese blends. Monterey Jack, a Mexican cheese blend, or even some smoked gouda can elevate the flavor profile. A truly decadent version of this Crockpot cheesy hamburger potato casserole can include a cream cheese layer.
- Creamy Alternative: Instead of cream of mushroom soup, I sometimes use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a slightly different creamy base. You can also make your own white sauce from scratch for a homemade touch.
Amazing 1-Pot Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes - 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly slow cooker meal. It features layers of tender ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese in a creamy mushroom sauce. This one-pot dish offers rich flavors with minimal effort, perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
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
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild), divided
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
- Thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the crockpot. Add half of the cooked beef and onion mixture, then sprinkle with some shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or 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. Cover again to allow it to melt thoroughly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Choose quality lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Layer ingredients properly for balanced flavors and textures.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking for easier serving and enhanced flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, covered with foil, or in the microwave in increments of 1-2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole, Slow Cooker Ground Beef Potato Bake, Crock Pot Beef and Potato Hotdish, Hamburger Potato Crockpot Recipe, Easy Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Bake Crock Pot, Hearty Crockpot Beef and Potato Meal, Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup, One Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Slow Cooker, Make Ahead Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole, Family Friendly Crockpot Hamburger Potato Dinner, Dump and Go Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole, Ground Beef Potato Casserole Slow Cooker








