Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Creamy Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe for Families

Comfort food reaches new heights with this hearty crockpot hamburger potato casserole that promises to satisfy even the most discerning appetite.

Layers of tender potatoes and seasoned ground beef create a mouthwatering symphony of flavors in your slow cooker.

The rich, creamy texture melts together with savory spices, creating a one-pot wonder that screams home-cooked goodness.

Each bite brings warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood dinners around the family table.

Minimal prep work means maximum enjoyment, letting you spend less time cooking and more time savoring.

This simple yet delicious dish transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can create such a comforting and delectable dinner.

Why Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Hits the Mark

  • Simplify Dinner Prep: Crockpot magic transforms basic ingredients into a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
  • Kid-Friendly Comfort: Layers of cheesy potatoes and savory beef create a crowd-pleasing dish that even picky eaters will devour, making mealtime stress-free.
  • One-Pot Dish: Minimal dishes and straightforward layering technique mean less cleanup and more time enjoying family moments around the table.
  • Budget-Friendly Feast: Combines affordable pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and soup to deliver a filling meal without breaking the bank.

What You Need for Hamburger Potato Casserole

Core Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: Hearty protein that forms the base of this comforting casserole.
  • Potatoes: Creamy and filling base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: Rich and creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.
  • Cheese: Melty topping that adds a golden, gooey finish.
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
  • Milk: Smooth liquid that helps create a creamy texture.
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
Preparation Ingredients:
  • Non-Stick Spray: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

How to Make Hamburger Potato Casserole in the Crockpot

Step 1: Sizzle Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked.

Break the meat into small crumbles while cooking.

Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Prepare Potato Layers

Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them into thin, even rounds.

This ensures they cook evenly and create a delicious layered texture in the casserole.

Step 3: Create Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Whole milk
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Layer Casserole Ingredients

Lightly spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.

Begin layering ingredients in this order:
  • Potato slices
  • Cooked ground beef
  • Creamy soup mixture
  • Shredded cheese

Repeat these layers until you’ve used all ingredients, making sure to end with a generous cheese topping.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook on high heat for 3-4 hours.

The casserole is ready when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

After cooking, turn off the crockpot and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes.

This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

Serve with a side of steamed green vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Crockpot Hamburger and Potato Bake

  • Remove excess grease from ground beef before adding to the crockpot to prevent a greasy, heavy dish.
  • Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture and even cooking throughout the casserole.
  • Create even layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese to ensure consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
  • Experiment with different cheese types like cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend to add variety and personal flavor.
  • If the casserole seems too liquid, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour of cooking to help thicken the sauce naturally.

Storing and Reheating Hamburger Potato Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Consume within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.
  • Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed and steaming.

Sides That Pair with Hamburger Potato Casserole

  • Crisp Garden Salad: Toss fresh mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and light vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy casserole.
  • Bold Red Wine Complement: Select a medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to cut through the hearty dish's richness and elevate the beef's savory flavor.
  • Fresh Green Side Boost: Roast broccoli or green beans with garlic and olive oil to add nutritious crunch and bright color to the comforting casserole.
  • Tangy Pickle Accent: Serve quick homemade pickles or crisp dill pickle spears to provide a zesty, acidic contrast against the creamy, cheesy potato layers.

Creative Takes on Hamburger Potato Casserole

  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Replace cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free alternative or homemade cream soup, using gluten-free flour for thickening.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or turnips to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining similar texture and flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for topping, and replace milk with unsweetened almond or coconut milk.
  • Vegetarian Adaptation: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, keeping the same layering technique and cooking method for a meat-free protein option.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of ground meat?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cooking method.

  • Do I need to pre-cook the potatoes before adding them to the crockpot?

No, you don’t need to pre-cook the potatoes. Slice them thinly and layer them raw in the crockpot. They will cook perfectly during the slow cooking process.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole reheats well and can be prepared in advance. You can store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners.

  • Can I make this recipe without cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. You can also use a homemade white sauce if you prefer a from-scratch approach.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole brings comfort and warmth to family dinner tables with its rich, layered flavors. Cheesy, creamy potatoes mingle with seasoned ground beef, promising a satisfying meal that will make hungry diners smile.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds ground beef (browned)
  • 5 small potatoes
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese

Liquid and Soup:

  • 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk

Seasonings:

  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and thoroughly cook the ground beef until no pink remains, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat and set meat aside.
  2. Carefully slice potatoes into thin, uniform rounds, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
  3. Whisk cream of mushroom soup with milk in a separate bowl, seasoning generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
  4. Generously coat the interior of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Create initial base layer using potato slices, covering bottom of crockpot completely.
  6. Distribute browned ground beef evenly over potato layer, ensuring uniform coverage.
  7. Drizzle prepared soup mixture across beef layer, allowing liquid to seep between ingredients.
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheese over soup layer, creating a rich and creamy texture.
  9. Repeat layering process – potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese – until all ingredients are incorporated.
  10. Ensure final top layer is cheese for a golden, appetizing appearance.
  11. Secure crockpot lid and cook on high temperature for 3-4 hours, periodically checking potato tenderness.
  12. Once potatoes are fork-tender, switch off crockpot and allow casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes.
  13. Serve warm alongside fresh green vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Drain the ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease in the final dish, which can make the casserole soggy and less appetizing.
  • Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture, as they hold their shape well during slow cooking and provide a creamy interior.
  • For a healthier version, substitute lean ground turkey or chicken and use low-fat cream of mushroom soup to reduce calories and fat content.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving to boost flavor and add a pop of color to the casserole.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star