SLOW COOKER BEEF AND POTATO CASSEROLE PERFECT

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Delicious Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole featured image showcasing the hearty and comforting dish.

Imagine tender chunks of beef, creamy potatoes, and savory seasonings mingling together in a comforting casserole that requires minimal effort. This Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole is the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers, promising a hearty and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Let’s get cooking!

The All-Star Ingredients for Your Casserole

Close-up view of a hearty Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole, showcasing the tender beef and golden-brown potatoes.

Making this Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole is easy! Let’s gather everything we’ll need. Don’t worry; most of these are pantry staples!

The Beefy Foundation

  • 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (I prefer lean, but any kind works!)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced

The Creamy Potato Layer

  • 2 lbs Potatoes, peeled and cubed (Russet or Yukon Gold are great)
  • 1 (10.75 oz) can Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
  • 1/2 cup Milk (or Beef Broth for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream (optional, but adds richness!)
  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

The Finishing Touch

  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or your favorite!)
  • Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Let’s Get This Casserole Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, friend, now for the fun part! This Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole recipe is so straightforward, even the busiest weeknights will feel a little less chaotic. I’ll walk you through each step.

Step 1: Brown the Beef (Don’t Skip This!)

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This is *so* important for avoiding a greasy casserole! Trust me.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Layer It All in the Slow Cooker

  1. Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray (or use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup – lifesaver!).
  2. Place the browned ground beef mixture in the bottom of the slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Ground Beef base is going to be *amazing*.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, milk (or broth), sour cream (if using), thyme, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated. This creamy mixture is what makes the casserole so comforting!
  4. Pour the potato mixture over the ground beef in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Every slow cooker is different, so keep an eye on it!

Step 4: Cheese It Up!

  1. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This gives it that perfect, melty, gooey goodness.
  2. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Carefully remove the lid from the slow cooker.
  2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, home-cooked Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Casserole Ever

Let’s face it, sometimes recipes need a little tweaking to become *perfect* for *you*. Here are some of my best-kept secrets for a truly outstanding Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole:

  • Beef Broth Boost: Instead of milk, try using beef broth for an extra layer of savory flavor. It intensifies the beefiness and makes it even more comforting.
  • Veggie Power: Feel free to add other veggies! Diced carrots, celery, or even frozen peas would be fantastic additions. This is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients, especially if you’re feeding picky eaters.
  • Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the potato mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the finished casserole.
  • Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a smoky Gouda would all be delicious.
  • Browning the Beef is Key: I know it’s tempting to skip browning the beef to save time, but trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes. Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor and prevents the casserole from being bland.
  • Don’t Overcook: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time and test for tenderness with a fork.
  • Easy Crockpot Dinners for the win! This recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious Easy Crockpot Dinners can be. Just set it and forget it!

Ground Beef And Potatoes: A Match Made in Heaven

There’s just something so comforting about the combination of Ground Beef And Potatoes. It’s a classic pairing that’s been satisfying families for generations. This casserole takes that timeless combination and elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Thinking of similar flavors? Why not try Taco Casserole for a flavorful twist, or the ultimate, hearty Slow Cooker Stew on a cold evening. If you want a similar creamy vibe, you might like Creamy Potato Soup or Sausage Potato Casserole. For a similar recipe, check out Steak & Cheddar Potato Casserole. Feeling like something different? Try Salisbury Steak.

Making it a Meal

This Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own. However, if you want to round it out, consider serving it with:

  • A simple side salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.
  • Steamed green beans: A classic and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with beef and potatoes.
  • Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!

Storing and Reheating

  • Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the slow cooker on low heat.

Final Thoughts: You Got This!

This Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole is a winner for so many reasons: it’s easy, comforting, and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use Slow Cooker Ground Beef! I hope you give it a try and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create a casserole that perfectly suits your taste. Happy cooking, friend! I know you’ll create something amazing!

Can I substitute the milk in the recipe with something else?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with beef broth for an extra layer of savory flavor.

Is it necessary to brown the ground beef before putting it in the slow cooker?

Yes, browning the ground beef is important because it adds a depth of flavor and prevents the casserole from being bland.

How long can I store leftovers of the Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

What are some other vegetables I can add to this casserole?

You can add diced carrots, celery, or even frozen peas to the casserole.

Delicious Slow Cooker Beef And Potato Casserole featured image showcasing the hearty and comforting dish.

Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
This Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender beef, creamy potatoes, and savory seasonings combine in this easy-to-prepare casserole that the whole family will enjoy. Simply layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spoon
  • Slow cooker
  • Cooking spray or slow cooker liner
  • Large bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ½ cup milk or beef broth
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
  • Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner.
  • Place the browned ground beef mixture in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, milk (or broth), sour cream (if using), thyme, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated.
  • Pour the potato mixture over the ground beef in the slow cooker.
  • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
  • During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  • Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Carefully remove the lid from the slow cooker.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For an extra layer of savory flavor, use beef broth instead of milk. Feel free to add other veggies such as diced carrots, celery, or frozen peas. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a smoky Gouda can be used instead of cheddar cheese. Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor. Keep an eye on the potatoes to prevent overcooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, skillet, or slow cooker until heated through.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amelia Chen-Morrison

the visionary behind BestHomeMadeRecipes. Along with my cousin Alice, we’ve created your ultimate destination for restaurant-quality recipes

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