If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting meal that practically makes itself, then you have to try this Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and creamy mushroom soup all melted together with gooey cheese. This dish truly captures that cozy, homestyle feeling and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while it cooks low and slow. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this casserole will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for this recipe are simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each item is essential, from the creamy soup that adds richness to the shredded cheese that brings cheesy, melty goodness on top.
- 5 small potatoes: Peeled and sliced, they become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 lbs ground beef (browned): Provides hearty protein and a savory base for the casserole.
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and a slight earthiness that ties everything together.
- 1 cup milk: Lightens the soup for a smooth, luscious sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors deliciously.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese: Melts perfectly on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
How to Make Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy, then set the beef aside. This step ensures your casserole has flavorful, perfectly cooked meat throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
While the beef is cooking, peel your potatoes and slice them into thin rounds. Thin slices cook evenly and soften beautifully during the slow cooking process, making every bite tender and satisfying.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the milk. Season generously with salt and pepper, then whisk everything together until smooth. This creamy sauce will keep the casserole moist and bring all the ingredients together with that irresistible mushroom flavor.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Begin layering by adding a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by the browned beef. Pour some of the soup mixture over the top, then sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until you’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Place the lid on your crock pot and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is to cook until the potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork. This slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once done, turn off the crock pot and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes. This little rest period helps the casserole thicken up so it slices and serves neatly, making your meal both comforting and picture-perfect.
How to Serve Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this hearty casserole. Freshly chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a touch of freshness that contrasts the rich flavors. For an extra kick, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dollop of sour cream can work wonders.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, green vegetables to balance the richness. Think steamed broccoli, a bright garden salad, or roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides add texture and brightness, complementing the warm, cheesy casserole perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners or casual gatherings, serve the casserole straight from the crock pot to keep it warm and inviting. Alternatively, portion it onto individual plates and garnish with your favorite toppings, making each serving feel special and ready to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal you can easily reheat for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked assembled casserole for up to 2 months—just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed. Freezing is a lifesaver for busy weeks when you want homemade comfort food without extra prep.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. To keep the texture just right, cover the dish loosely with foil if using the oven and heat at 350°F until warmed through. This way, you get that just-cooked taste every time.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for this casserole?
Absolutely! While small potatoes work great, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are excellent choices since they hold their shape well and have a nice, creamy texture when cooked.
Is it necessary to brown the ground beef first?
Yes, browning the beef enhances the flavor and texture of the meat, as well as removing excess fat. It prevents the casserole from becoming too greasy and adds a richer taste to the dish.
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom, you can swap it for cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. However, the mushroom soup gives that signature earthiness essential to this Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe.
How long can I cook the casserole in the crock pot?
Cooking times can vary a bit, but 3 to 4 hours on high is ideal for tender potatoes and well-melded flavors. You can also cook on low for 6 to 7 hours if preferred, but keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Definitely! This casserole is fantastic for making ahead in bulk. It stores well and tastes just as delicious reheated, making it a fantastic option for feeding a family or batch cooking for the week.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is such a wonderful, comforting dish that truly simplifies dinner without skimping on flavor. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family or friends and ideal for busy days where you want a hearty meal with minimal fuss. Once you try it, I have no doubt it will become a go-to staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Tender sliced potatoes layered with savory browned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheese cook together slowly in a crock pot to create a rich and satisfying casserole that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 5 small potatoes, peeled and sliced
Beef
- 2 lbs ground beef, browned
Soup Mixture
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even slices for uniform cooking. Set aside.
- Mix Soup Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended. Set aside.
- Prepare Crock Pot: Spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Ingredients: Layer the sliced potatoes first in the crock pot, followed by a layer of browned ground beef, then spoon on some of the soup mixture, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a topping of cheese.
- Cook: Place the lid on the crock pot and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Rest the Casserole: Turn off the crock pot and let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the casserole to thicken and set slightly for easier serving.
- Serve: Slice the casserole and serve warm, paired nicely with your favorite vegetable side dish.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced potatoes to ensure even cooking within the crock pot’s timeframe.
- Cheddar cheese works best for melting and flavor, but feel free to use a cheese blend if preferred.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- If cooking on low heat, extend the cooking time to about 6-7 hours.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it firm up, making it easier to slice.
