Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole (Hearty, Creamy & Family-Friendly)

This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a rich, savory, and comforting one-pot meal that’s made for busy weeknights, family dinners, or slow Sunday suppers. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s a hands-off dinner that’s easy to prep and even easier to love.

As it cooks low and slow, the potatoes become perfectly tender, the beef soaks up flavor from the sauce, and everything melts into a hearty, satisfying casserole that feels like old-school comfort food with modern convenience.

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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Casserole

This recipe is:

• Simple and satisfying with minimal ingredients

• Great for meal prep or leftovers

• Customizable with veggies, cheese, or spice preferences

• Made in the slow cooker for effortless cooking

• A full meal in one pot—protein, starch, and creamy goodness

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Ingredient Overview: What You’ll Need

Ground Beef

• Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for great flavor

• Browned and seasoned before layering

• Turkey or plant-based ground can be used for a lighter version

Potatoes

• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best

• Peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick for even cooking

• Provide the starchy base that holds everything together

Onion

• Sliced thin or diced

• Adds sweetness and aromatic depth

Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup

• Acts as the creamy sauce that binds the casserole

• You can use condensed canned soup or make a homemade version

Milk

• Thins out the soup and makes it easier to coat the layers

• Whole, 2%, or unsweetened non-dairy options all work

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

• Melts into the layers and gives that classic cheesy casserole vibe

• Use sharp cheddar for more flavor, or a mix of cheeses

Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Paprika

• Basic seasonings that elevate the flavor without complicating the recipe

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

• In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 lb ground beef until fully cooked

• Drain excess fat

• Season with:

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• Set aside

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together:

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

  • ½ cup milk

  • Optional: ½ cup sour cream for extra creaminess

• Mix until smooth

Step 3: Layer in the Crockpot

Grease the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker, then layer as follows:

1. Potatoes – one-third of the sliced potatoes

2. Onions – one-third of the sliced onions

3. Ground beef – one-third of the cooked beef

4. Sauce – spoon a few tablespoons over the layer

5. Cheese – sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar

Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with cheese on top.

Step 4: Cook

• Cover and cook on:

  • LOW for 6–7 hours

  • or HIGH for 3½–4 hours

• Check doneness by piercing potatoes—they should be fork-tender

Step 5: Serve

• Let sit for 10–15 minutes after cooking to firm up

• Scoop into bowls or serve in slices

• Garnish with parsley, chives, or extra cheese if desired

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips:

• Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices

• Do not skip pre-cooking the beef—raw beef adds excess grease

• Add a layer of foil under the Crockpot lid if excess moisture is an issue

Variations:

• Spicy Version – Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper

• Southwest Style – Add black beans, taco seasoning, and pepper jack cheese

• Breakfast Twist – Swap beef for cooked breakfast sausage and top with eggs

Substitutions:

• Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version

• Vegan cream soup and plant-based cheese for a dairy-free take

• Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for added protein

• Hash browns instead of sliced potatoes for a shortcut

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Serve With:

• A simple green salad

• Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli

• Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread

Great For:

• Weeknight dinners

• Make-ahead lunches

• Potlucks or family gatherings

• Cold weather comfort meals

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but also plays well with lighter sides.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is:

• High in protein thanks to beef and cheese

• Satiating and comforting with complex carbs from potatoes

• Customizable for low-sodium or dairy-free diets

Approximate Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings):

• Calories: 420–480

• Protein: 25–30g

• Carbohydrates: 25–30g

• Fat: 25–30g

• Fiber: 3–4g

• Sodium: 800–1,000mg (depending on soup and cheese used)

To lighten it up:

• Use lean beef or turkey

• Choose low-sodium soup and cheese

• Add chopped cauliflower or carrots to stretch the potatoes

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FAQ: Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

1. Can I put raw ground beef directly into the Crockpot?

It’s not recommended. Browning the beef first ensures better flavor, texture, and prevents greasy buildup.

2. What type of potatoes work best?

Yukon Golds or Russets are best. Yukon holds shape better; Russets are starchier and creamier.

3. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the layers up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Start the Crockpot when ready.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool completely and store in airtight containers. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in microwave or oven.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use a dairy-free cream soup and vegan shredded cheese. Skip the optional sour cream.

6. How can I make this more vegetable-heavy?

Add layers of spinach, mushrooms, corn, or bell peppers between the potatoes and beef.

7. Why is my casserole watery?

This can happen from excess moisture in the potatoes or lid condensation. Let it rest uncovered for 10–15 minutes before serving to thicken.