There’s something undeniably comforting about a crock pot hamburger potato casserole slowly simmering away in the kitchen. The aroma that fills the house is a gentle reminder of simpler times, evoking memories that are as warm as the dish itself. I remember the first time I tried making this casserole; it was a chilly autumn afternoon, and my sister Ouma was visiting. We found ourselves reminiscing about the days spent in Mama Lou’s cozy kitchen, where the air was always filled with the scent of hearty meals and laughter. This crock pot hamburger potato casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a tribute to those cherished moments we shared growing up.
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Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole
This crock pot hamburger potato casserole is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a family favorite. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to bring people together, much like Mama Lou’s kitchen did. It’s a hearty meal that doesn’t require you to slave over the stove for hours. Instead, you can set it and forget it, allowing the crock pot to work its magic. Imagine coming home after a long day to the welcoming aroma that reminds you of the warmth and love of family gatherings. This casserole is all about comfort, convenience, and creating memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn
Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken if you prefer a lighter flavor. For a vegetarian twist, swap the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Mama Lou always encouraged us to make recipes our own, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that based on what we had on hand.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
Cozy Comfort: Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole Delight
Learn how to make delicious crock pot hamburger potato casserole. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn
Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken if you prefer a lighter flavor. For a vegetarian twist, swap the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Mama Lou always encouraged us to make recipes our own, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that based on what we had on hand.
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your crock pot.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped onions over the potatoes, followed by half of the cooked ground beef.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and ground beef.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layers in the crock pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
- For added flavor, mix in frozen peas or corn during the last hour of cooking.
I can’t help but smile when I make this recipe, recalling how Mama Lou would let us sneak a taste of the cheese before it went into the pot. She always believed that cooking was an act of love, and this dish embodies that philosophy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your crock pot.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped onions over the potatoes, followed by half of the cooked ground beef.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and ground beef.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layers in the crock pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
- For added flavor, mix in frozen peas or corn during the last hour of cooking.
I can’t help but smile when I make this recipe, recalling how Mama Lou would let us sneak a taste of the cheese before it went into the pot. She always believed that cooking was an act of love, and this dish embodies that philosophy.
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole
To ensure your casserole is perfectly cooked, make sure to slice the potatoes evenly. This ensures they cook at the same rate, resulting in a dish that’s uniformly tender. Mama Lou taught us that patience is key in cooking, especially with dishes like this where the flavors have time to meld and develop.
If you prefer a crispier top, transfer the cooked casserole to an oven-safe dish and broil it for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This added step was one of Ouma’s favorite tricks, giving the dish a delightful texture contrast.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This crock pot hamburger potato casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables, balancing the richness of the dish. A warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. And of course, no meal is complete without a glass of your favorite wine or, as Mama Lou would say, a tall glass of homemade iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you’re like me and enjoy a late-night snack, this casserole tastes even better the next day, when the flavors have had even more time to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for crock pot hamburger potato casserole?
The main ingredients for crock pot hamburger potato casserole include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make crock pot hamburger potato casserole?
The total time to make crock pot hamburger potato casserole includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make crock pot hamburger potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes, crock pot hamburger potato casserole can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with crock pot hamburger potato casserole?
crock pot hamburger potato casserole pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is crock pot hamburger potato casserole suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, crock pot hamburger potato casserole may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Crock pot hamburger potato casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of family, heritage, and love. Every bite takes me back to those cherished moments in Mama Lou’s kitchen, surrounded by the laughter of family and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, I hope it brings as much warmth and joy to your home as it does to mine.
