Print

Hamburger Potato Casserole Bake

hamburger potato casserole bake - featured image

This easy crockpot hamburger potato casserole bake combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese in a creamy sauce for the ultimate comfort food dinner. Perfect for busy families, meal-preppers, and anyone craving a hearty, one-pot meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and sliced thin (1/8-inch)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup frozen peas or carrots (optional)
  • 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until fully browned (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat.
  2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick).
  3. Lightly grease the crockpot insert. Layer half the potatoes on the bottom, then sprinkle with half the onions, half the browned beef, and half the cheese.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
  5. Pour half the sauce over the first layer in the crockpot.
  6. Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, onions, beef, cheese, and the rest of the sauce.
  7. Dot the top with butter and scatter frozen peas or carrots if using. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top.
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
  9. Let the casserole sit with the lid off for 10 minutes before serving to help set the layers.
  10. Scoop into bowls and enjoy hot.

Notes

For best results, slice potatoes evenly and shred cheese fresh. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, and use gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives as needed. Letting the casserole rest before serving helps set the layers. Leftovers thicken as they cool and are great for sandwiches. If you want a crispy top, broil individual servings for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: hamburger potato casserole, crockpot dinner, slow cooker casserole, comfort food, ground beef recipes, easy family dinner, cheesy potato bake