Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
A cozy, cheesy casserole that stretches a pound of ground beef into a hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef lean or regular; lean reduces greasiness.
- 4-5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick); Yukon golds are creamier, russets hold shape well.
- 1 medium onion chopped.
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided; sharp adds bite.
Sauce
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup sub cream of chicken for a milder flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk whole or 2% for creamier texture; nondairy milks will thin the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring, until the beef is browned and there is no pink left, about 5–7 minutes. Drain off excess fat.
- Wash potatoes and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch).
Layering
- Spray the crockpot lightly with cooking spray or rub a little oil on the insert to prevent sticking.
- Place half the potato slices in an even layer on the bottom of the crockpot.
- Spoon half the cooked beef and onion over the potatoes. Sprinkle with about one-third of the shredded cheddar.
- Repeat: layer the remaining potatoes, the rest of the beef, and another portion of cheese.
Cooking
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, and a pinch of 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 potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
- About 10–15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve warm.
Notes
If you want lower sodium, use a low-sodium cream soup and taste before adding salt. For gluten-free, check the cream-of-mushroom soup label or use a homemade GF white sauce.