Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a simple, comforting meal that brings together ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy sauce all cooked slowly to perfection. It’s the kind of dinner that smells amazing as it simmers all day, filling your home with warmth and cozy vibes. The potatoes soak up all the flavors, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
I love how easy this casserole is to throw together in the morning, then forget about until dinner time. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something hearty and homey without a lot of fuss. One tip I always follow is to brown the hamburger first—it locks in the flavor and keeps the texture just right in the finished dish.
We often serve this casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s a family favorite because it’s filling and satisfying, and honestly, who can resist that mix of tender potatoes and savory beef? Whenever I make it, I feel like I’m giving everyone a warm hug through food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Browning the beef first makes a big flavor difference. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. I prefer 80/20 beef for juiciness.
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for creaminess. Thinly slicing helps them cook evenly in the crockpot. Yukon Golds work well too and add a buttery taste.
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and chicken soups create the creamy, comforting sauce. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk with a bit of nutritional yeast or dairy-free cream soup substitutes.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth and richness. Feel free to use mild cheddar or a cheese blend. For dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How Do I Make Sure the Potatoes Cook Evenly in the Crockpot?
Cooking potatoes in a crockpot can be tricky since they need to be tender but not mushy. Here’s how I get it right:
- Slice potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch. Thin slices cook faster and more evenly.
- Layer potatoes evenly without overcrowding. Compact layers can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cook low and slow—6 to 8 hours on low is best. High heat cooks faster but risks undercooked or mushy spots.
- Check tenderness before adding cheese. Insert a fork in a few spots to test—potatoes should be soft but hold shape.
These tips help make sure each bite has the perfect potato texture, cozy with the flavorful beef and cheese.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot/Slow Cooker – This is the heart of the dish, letting the casserole cook low and slow without much hands-on time.
- Large skillet – You’ll brown the ground beef and onions here for better flavor and texture.
- Knife and cutting board – Essential for slicing potatoes thinly and chopping onions safely.
- Mixing bowl – Handy for combining the soups, milk, and spices smoothly before layering.
- Measuring spoons and cups – To get your seasonings and liquids just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish while keeping it hearty.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veggies and flavor.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack with cheddar for a creamier, slightly spicy twist.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder to give the casserole a mild smoky or spicy kick.
Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes to prepare, mainly browning the beef and mixing ingredients. Then, cook it in the crockpot for 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Finally, add cheese and let it melt for about 15 minutes. Overall, it’s an easy recipe with plenty of “set it and forget it” time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Onions:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks and cook until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any extra fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
3. Layer in the Crockpot:
Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. Lay half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Spread half the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes. Pour half the creamy soup mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup.
4. Slow Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The potatoes should become tender but not mushy. Check by inserting a fork to make sure.
5. Add Cheese and Garnish:
For the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt nicely. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh flavor. Enjoy your warm and comforting casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen sliced potatoes to save prep time. Just thaw them completely and pat dry to reduce excess moisture before layering in the crockpot. Cooking time should remain about the same.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in the crockpot insert, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just pop it into the crockpot and cook as directed, adding an extra 30 minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to keep the potatoes tender but not mushy.
What Can I Serve with Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. Crusty bread or dinner rolls also make perfect sides to scoop up the creamy sauce.
