Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. This hearty and satisfying dish combines layers of tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and creamy sauces, all cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. With its simple ingredients and hands-off cooking method, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious meal without all the fuss. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb versions, everyone can enjoy this cozy casserole.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1.5 lbs russet potatoes, washed and sliced thin
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 10.5 oz cheddar soup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Grease the bottom and sides of your crock pot with butter to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add sliced onions. Sauté until the onions are softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Layer Potatoes: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the greased crock pot.
- Season: In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture over the layer of potatoes.
- Add Ground Beef and Onions: Spread half of the cooked ground beef and onions over the layer of potatoes in the crock pot.
- Cheese and Soups: In a separate bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup and cheddar soup. Spread half of the soup mixture over the layer of ground beef and onions. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers of potatoes, seasoning, ground beef and onions, soup mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Potato Thickness: Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor. Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack cheese can be delicious substitutes or additions to the cheddar.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, you can layer in thinly sliced vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers along with the potatoes.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and cook it when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes? A: Yes, you can use other varieties of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different types of potatoes may cook at slightly different rates.
Q: Can I make this casserole keto-friendly? A: Yes, you can make a keto-friendly version of this casserole by substituting the cream of mushroom soup and cheddar soup with keto-friendly alternatives or by making your own low-carb versions at home. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of potatoes or replace them with cauliflower slices to lower the carb content.
Q: How can I make this casserole lower in carbs? A: To make a lower-carb version of this casserole, you can reduce the amount of potatoes used or replace them with a lower-carb vegetable such as cauliflower or broccoli. You can also use a reduced-fat or lower-carb cheese option to further decrease the carb count.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup and cheddar soup with keto-friendly alternatives or make your own low-carb versions at home. Additionally, reduce the amount of potatoes used or replace them with cauliflower slices to lower the carb content.
- Low-Carb Version: Decrease the amount of potatoes used or replace them with a lower-carb vegetable such as cauliflower or broccoli. Use a reduced-fat or lower-carb cheese option to further decrease the carb count.
Crock Pot Hamburger Potato Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to feed a crowd, this recipe fits the bill. With its layers of tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and creamy sauces, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb versions, everyone can enjoy this delicious casserole. So dust off your slow cooker and give this recipe a try—it’s guaranteed to warm your soul and fill your belly with happiness!
