There’s something timeless about a warm casserole, especially when it combines the comforting flavors of beef, potatoes, and melted cheese. This slow cooker version of hamburger potato casserole is an easy way to bring that classic taste to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s a dish that requires only a few pantry staples and offers rich, layered flavor after hours of slow cooking. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or want to make something that reheats well throughout the week, this recipe is a reliable favorite.
One of the best things about this casserole is its flexibility. You can add frozen vegetables like corn or peas, swap out cheeses, or even use ground turkey instead of beef if you’re watching your red meat intake. The creamy mushroom base brings it all together, while the melted cheddar and crispy breadcrumbs on top add just the right texture. It’s the type of recipe that feels nostalgic for many and becomes a new favorite for others. Plus, the slow cooker makes it almost effortless—just set it in the morning and return home to a delicious, bubbling meal that smells as good as it tastes.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
Instructions
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain off any excess grease. In your slow cooker, layer the diced potatoes on the bottom, followed by the beef and onion mixture. In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth, then pour this mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. In the final hour of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and breadcrumbs over the top. Cover again and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes
This casserole is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, offering a satisfying and filling meal. However, it contains dairy and gluten, which may not be suitable for people with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities. The sodium content can be high due to the soup and cheese, so low-sodium alternatives can be used for a lighter version. You can also swap the ground beef for leaner meats to reduce saturated fat.
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