Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole has become one of our go-to weeknight meals, and for good reason. Hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully low-effort, it checks all the boxes of a true comfort food. I first whipped this up on a chilly Tuesday when the fridge was running low, and all I had were some potatoes, ground beef, and cheddar cheese. My husband took one bite and said, “This tastes like something my mom would’ve made, but better.”
That’s when I knew it had to go on the blog.
In today’s recipe, I’ll walk you through everything you need to recreate this crockpot favorite in your own kitchen, along with time-saving tips and tasty variations.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Hamburger Casserole
There’s something satisfying about tossing ingredients into your slow cooker and walking away, knowing dinner’s taken care of. This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole delivers on both flavor and convenience.
First, it’s a one-pot wonder. You don’t need to brown the meat beforehand (though you can for extra flavor). Second, it’s incredibly flexible. Swap in what you have; russet or Yukon potatoes, shredded cheddar or Colby Jack, even cream of mushroom or celery soup. It’s that forgiving.
But what seals the deal? That ultra-cozy combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese all slow-cooked to perfection.
If you’re a fan of slow-cooked meals like my Crockpot Cowboy Casserole, you’ll appreciate the similar ease and savory payoff here.
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Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
A hearty and comforting Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole with ground beef, sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for cozy weeknights or meal prepping.
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds ground beef
6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: garlic powder, paprika, parsley
Instructions
1. Brown the ground beef with chopped onion (optional but recommended). Drain excess fat.
2. In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with milk and seasonings.
3. Spray your slow cooker with nonstick spray.
4. Layer half the sliced potatoes, then half the beef mixture, followed by half the cheese.
5. Repeat the layers and pour the soup mixture evenly over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can substitute cream of celery or cheddar soup.
Add frozen veggies like corn or peas between layers.
Browning the beef enhances flavor but is not required.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Ingredients for a Simple & Satisfying Hamburger Potato Casserole
This dish keeps it real with pantry staples and fridge basics. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or parsley for extra flavor
Ingredient Notes:
- Potatoes: Russets or Yukon Golds work best.
- Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment.
- Soup: Cream of celery or cheddar soup also works well.
For a twist on casseroles with big flavor, check out the Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole.
How to Make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole
Making this dish is as easy as layering and letting the crockpot do the magic.
- Brown the ground beef (optional): In a skillet, cook the beef with chopped onions until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup with milk, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
- Layer in the crockpot:
- First layer: sliced potatoes
- Second layer: half of the cooked beef and onion mixture
- Third layer: shredded cheese
- Repeat layers and pour the soup mixture over everything.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
Pro tip: Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices and faster prep.
Love layered comfort food? Try this ultra-satisfying Dorito Casserole with Ground Beef for a bold twist.
Tips and Variations to Make It Your Own
This Crockpot Hamburger Casserole is endlessly customizable. Here are a few ideas to tweak it to your taste:
Tips:
- Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray for easier cleanup.
- Slice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook through.
- Let the casserole sit for 10–15 minutes after cooking for easier scooping.
Variations:
- Add veggies: Mix in frozen green beans, corn, or peas.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.
- Use different cheese: Pepper jack or mozzarella offer a fresh spin.
And if you’re craving more cheesy comfort food, you might love the Cheesy Chicken and Tater Tot Casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw ground beef in this recipe?
Yes, but browning the beef first adds flavor and helps reduce grease.
What potatoes work best for hamburger potato casserole?
Yukon Gold and Russet are ideal—they hold their shape and cook evenly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Cook the next day.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Need a new casserole to meal prep? Try this Chicken Taco Casserole next.
Closing Note
This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is one of those meals that feels like home. It’s cozy, hearty, and full of flavor, without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or freezing the leftovers, it’s a dish that delivers every single time.
Simple enough for a weeknight. Tasty enough for seconds.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, don’t hesitate to join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
