Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs meal with minimal fuss, then this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It combines tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes and savory ground beef, all smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce and melty cheddar cheese. The slow cooker does all the hard work while you relax, and by dinnertime, you’re greeted with a bubbling, golden casserole that tastes like pure comfort in every bite. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd without slaving away in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role. From hearty potatoes to sharp cheddar cheese, every component contributes to the rich texture, flavor, and visual appeal of the dish.

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular): The main source of savory protein that brings depth and heartiness.
• 4-5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced: Adds comforting creaminess and a tender bite when cooked low and slow.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Infuses subtle sweetness and a flavorful base for the beef.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp or mild cheese creates melty, golden layers that enhance richness.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: A creamy binder that keeps everything moist and delivers an earthy mushroom note.
• 1/2 cup milk: Lightens and smooths the soup, making the sauce perfectly velvety.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the elements to life.
• Optional garnishes – fresh parsley or chopped chives: Adds a fresh, colorful finish with a touch of brightness.

How to Make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Begin by cooking the ground beef and chopped onion together in a skillet over medium heat until the beef is fully browned and there’s no pink left, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat afterward to prevent your casserole from ending up greasy, keeping the flavors rich but clean.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and thinly slice your potatoes evenly—about 1/8 inch thick works best. Uniform slices ensure that they cook evenly in the crockpot without turning mushy or underdone. Choosing russet or Yukon gold potatoes adds that lovely creamy texture essential for a hearty casserole.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot

Now for the fun part: building your layers. Start with half of the sliced potatoes spread evenly on the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the browned beef and onion mixture on top, then sprinkle with a portion of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese—this layering creates a harmony of flavors in every bite.

Step 4: Mix and Pour the Creamy Sauce

Whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Pour this sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the crockpot. This sauce is crucial because it seeps into the potatoes and beef, making the casserole moist, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking melts the cheese beautifully, allows the potatoes to soften perfectly, and lets the flavors meld together in pure harmony. Your kitchen will start filling with a mouthwatering aroma that’s a tease for what’s to come.

Step 6: Add Finishing Cheese and Herbs

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover again so the cheese melts and turns bubbly and golden. Once ready to serve, garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the rich dish.

How to Serve Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the look and the flavor, I love sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving. These green herbs bring a lovely freshness and a bit of crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole. Plus, they make your dish look inviting and vibrant on the plate.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add something light, a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also provide a nice textural and nutritional balance, adding a bright, healthy touch alongside your hearty casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions of the Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe in small ramekins, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese and herbs on top. You could also scoop it onto toasted bread slices for an open-faced casserole melt—perfect for a casual lunch or brunch option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy days. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole, but to preserve the best texture, freeze it before cooking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge then cook on low in the crockpot until bubbly and tender.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm the casserole gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep moisture in and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating can refresh that delicious melty layer.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar adds a classic sharpness, you can experiment with mozzarella for extra stretchiness or pepper jack if you want a bit of spice. Just keep the total cheese amount the same for best results.

What if I want to add vegetables to the casserole?

You can easily sneak in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas for extra nutrition and color. Just add them in with the beef in Step 1 so they can cook down and blend into the flavors nicely.

Is it possible to make this recipe in the oven instead of a crockpot?

Yes! Layer everything in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the potatoes are tender. Just check halfway through to make sure it’s not drying out.

How do I know when the potatoes are cooked perfectly?

After 6 to 8 hours on low in the crockpot, the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork but not falling apart. Thin, even slices help achieve this perfect texture every time.

Can I use other types of potatoes besides russet or Yukon gold?

You can try red potatoes or fingerlings, but keep in mind they have a waxier texture and might not soften as evenly or become as creamy. Russet or Yukon gold are ideal for their texture and ability to absorb flavors.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say the Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your dinner rotation. It’s comforting, straightforward, and comes together with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers on flavor and coziness every time — so go ahead and give it a try. Your future self will thank you!

Print