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Are you looking for a simple and hearty meal that can please the whole family? Look no further! This Hamburger Potato Casserole in your crockpot is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. With just a few key ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheddar cheese, you can whip up a comforting dish that warms the heart. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and make dinner a breeze!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: This casserole combines the heartiness of ground beef and potatoes, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Cooking in a crockpot allows flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day, resulting in a delicious meal with minimal effort.
- Customizable Layers: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or swap cheese varieties, making it a versatile dish that suits your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
Additional Ingredients
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup beef broth
Seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For this Hamburger Potato Casserole, the main ingredients are simple yet flavorful. Ground beef brings richness to the dish. Thinly sliced potatoes give it a hearty base. Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth.
Next, we have additional ingredients. The cheddar cheese melts into a gooey layer that makes each bite delicious. Cream of mushroom soup gives a creamy texture. Beef broth adds moisture and flavor.
Seasoning is key to enhancing the dish. Garlic powder adds a warm aroma. Onion powder complements the fresh onion. You can adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste.
With these ingredients, you can create a warm and filling meal. Each layer works together to make a comforting dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Cooking the ground beef and onions
First, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 chopped onion. Cook until the beef turns brown and the onion becomes soft. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any extra fat from the skillet to keep your casserole light and tasty.
Mixing seasonings and sauces
Next, take a large bowl. Combine the cooked beef and onions with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. This mix adds flavor to your dish. Set this mixture aside for later.
Assembling the Casserole
Layering potatoes and beef mixture
Grab your crockpot. Start by adding half of the 4 thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Next, spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. This layering creates a great base for your casserole.
Adding cheese and soup mixture
Now, sprinkle half of the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef. In another bowl, mix 1 can of cream of mushroom soup with 1 cup of beef broth. Pour this creamy mixture over the cheese layer. Repeat the layers again with the rest of the potatoes, beef, and cheese.
Cooking Method
Setting the crockpot
Cover the crockpot with a lid. Set it to low heat. This slow cooking helps the flavors blend well.
Cooking time and temperature
Cook the casserole for 6 to 8 hours. Check the potatoes for tenderness before serving. Once done, stir gently to mix the layers a bit. This dish is now ready to serve and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To ensure even cooking, layer the potatoes flat in the crockpot. Avoid piling them too high. This helps the heat move through all layers.
Check the potato tenderness by piercing them with a fork. They should be soft but not mushy. If they need more time, just cover and cook longer.
Serving Suggestions
For a nice presentation, scoop the casserole into bowls. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color. This makes the dish look great and adds freshness.
Serve with a side salad. A light salad balances the richness of the casserole. You could also add some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Enhancements
To spice things up, try adding red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. These add warmth and depth to the dish.
If you want to change ingredients, ground turkey or chicken works well. You can also add veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Pro Tips
- Layering is Key: Ensure even cooking by layering potatoes, beef, and cheese uniformly. This helps the flavors meld beautifully throughout the casserole.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and high-quality beef will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your casserole.
- Customize the Cheese: Try mixing different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for added flavor and creaminess.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the crockpot in the morning for an easy dinner.

Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up the meat in this casserole. Ground turkey or chicken works well. These meats keep the dish light yet tasty. You can also add veggies for extra crunch and flavor. Try mixing in carrots or bell peppers. Both add color and nutrients. Just chop them small so they cook well.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. This keeps the dish safe for anyone with gluten issues. For a dairy-free version, swap out the cheese. Use a plant-based cheese or skip it altogether. The casserole still tastes great without it.
Cooking Method Alternatives
Want to try a different cooking method? You can bake this casserole in the oven. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake at 350°F for about an hour. Check if the potatoes are soft before serving.
If you have an Instant Pot, you can speed things up. After browning the meat, layer the ingredients in the pot. Use the pressure cook setting for about 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for best results. This gives you a quick, tasty meal.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Hamburger Potato Casserole fresh, you need to store it right. First, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within a few days.
– Refrigeration guidelines: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing instructions: If you want to save it longer, freeze it. Wrap it well in foil and then in plastic wrap. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating the Casserole
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating properly is key. You want to keep that comforting taste and texture.
– Best methods for reheating: Use your oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to avoid drying out. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but it may not heat evenly.
– Tips to maintain texture: If reheating in the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the moisture in. Stir halfway through to heat evenly.
Shelf Life
Knowing how long your casserole lasts is helpful to avoid waste.
– How long to keep leftovers: In the fridge, your casserole is good for about 3-4 days. In the freezer, it can last 2-3 months.
– Signs of spoilage: Check for any off smells or changes in color. If it looks dry or has freezer burn, it’s best to toss it out. Always trust your senses!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Hamburger Potato Casserole in a crockpot?
The cooking time for a Hamburger Potato Casserole in a crockpot is between 6 to 8 hours on low heat. This long cooking time allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to blend well. If you are in a hurry, you can cook it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, but I recommend the low setting for the best taste.
Can I prepare Hamburger Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. To do this, cook the beef and onions, then layer the casserole in the crockpot without cooking it. Cover and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, set it in the crockpot, and cook it on low. This makes for an easy meal on busy days.
What can I serve with Hamburger Potato Casserole?
The casserole pairs well with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a bit of crunch, try adding pickles or a tangy coleslaw on the side. These options will balance the richness of the casserole nicely.
In this article, I covered how to make a delicious Hamburger Potato Casserole. We explored key ingredients, like ground beef and potatoes, and discussed cooking methods. I shared tips for even cooking and suggested substitutions for your tastes.
You can easily make variations with different meats or vegetables. With proper storage, you can enjoy this dish for days. Enjoy making this meal to share with family or friend
Hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole
A comforting and filling casserole made with ground beef, potatoes, and cheese.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 8 hours hrs
Total Time 8 hours hrs 20 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste salt and pepper
- optional fresh parsley for garnish
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with chopped onions until the beef is fully cooked and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef and onions with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth until smooth.
In the crockpot, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and ending with the cheese on top.
Carefully pour the cream of mushroom soup mixture over the top layer of cheese.
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
Once cooked, gently stir the casserole to combine the layers slightly.
Scoop a generous portion into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Keyword beef, casserole, cheese, potatoes
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