Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, hands-off dinner that packs all the comfort of mashed potatoes and cheeseburger flavors, you’ve got to try this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe. I absolutely love how this slow-cooked casserole brings together tender slices of potatoes, savory ground beef, and melty cheese layers without having to babysit the oven. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become your go-to easy meal that tastes like it took hours, but you barely lift a finger.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe plays a role in delivering that perfect creamy, comforting bite. Keep an eye out for fresh potatoes and quality cheese—they really make a difference!

• Ground beef: I like to go for 80/20 for juiciness and flavor without too much grease.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth; finely diced so it cooks evenly.
• Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture holds up well in slow cooking.
• Cream of mushroom soup: This classic binder provides that luscious sauce and mushroom flavor.
• Milk: Thins the soup for the perfect casserole consistency.
• Garlic powder: Gives a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
• Kosher salt: Seasoning is key—adjust to taste but don’t skip it.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground if possible for better flavor.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts well with a tangy bite everyone loves.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creamy smoothness and meltiness.

Variations

I love tweaking this casserole depending on what we have on hand or what my family is craving. Feel free to make it yours by swapping, adding, or omitting ingredients without losing that cozy vibe.

• Cheese swaps: I sometimes use mozzarella or pepper jack for a little extra zip—experiment to find your favorite combo.
• Vegetable add-ins: Toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition—I usually add them with the onions.
• Seasoning twists: Try a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian herbs to change up the flavor profile; some garlic lovers add fresh minced garlic instead of powder.
• Make it spicy: A dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes brings a nice warmth I’ve come to enjoy on colder days.

How to Make Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onions

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your ground beef. As you break it apart with your spatula, watch that delicious brown crust form—this is flavor gold! Once it’s mostly cooked, toss in the diced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and soft. Be sure to drain off any excess fat here; you want rich flavor but not greasiness creeping into the casserole.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

Once off the heat, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper directly into the beef and onions. This combo creates a creamy, savory sauce that makes the casserole irresistibly moist and flavorful. Mixing it now ensures every potato slice gets coated during layering.

Step 3: Layer Potatoes, Beef Mixture, and Cheese

Grease your crockpot or line it with a slow-cooker liner for easier cleanup—trust me, liners are a game changer! Start by placing half of your thinly sliced potatoes in one flat layer at the bottom. This step is essential for even cooking, so try to keep the slices uniform around 1/8-inch thickness.

Pour half of the beef and sauce mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle half of your shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top.

Repeat these steps with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese, finishing with that cheesy blanket on top.

Step 4: Slow Cook Until Potatoes Are Perfect

Cover your crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule. You’re looking for tender potatoes you can easily pierce with a fork and bubbly, melted cheese on top. Remember, don’t lift the lid frequently—that lets heat escape and can lengthen cooking time.

How to Serve Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like topping this casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and brightness. Sometimes a dollop of sour cream or a few crumbles of crispy bacon turn it into an extra indulgent treat—feel free to get creative here!

Side Dishes

This casserole stands up confidently on its own, but I often pair it with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans to add freshness to the meal. Garlic bread also works wonderfully if you want to make it a heartier feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I serve individual portions in mini ramekins straight from the crockpot—it makes guests feel like they’re getting something extra special. A sprinkle of extra cheese and broiling the top for a minute gives a lovely golden crust that wows every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Whenever we have leftovers, I store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and they keep well for 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to let the casserole cool before sealing to avoid condensation and sogginess.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole twice by portioning into freezer-safe containers. To freeze, cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ll have a nearly fresh-tasting dinner ready to go.

Reheating

Microwave works great for individual servings—cover loosely to keep moisture in. For larger portions, I reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through to keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe is truly one of my favorite comfort foods that fits perfectly into busy weeknight life or lazy weekend vibes. It’s surprisingly easy to throw together, yet it delivers layers of flavor and creamy, cheesy goodness that my whole family raves about. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a staple in my rotation—warm, filling, and just downright delicious. Give it a whirl and tell me your favorite twist on it!

Print