Slow Cooker Beef and Potatoes Casserole is the ultimate one-pot comfort meal, tender ground beef, thin-sliced potatoes, and melted cheese layered together in a creamy, seasoned sauce. It’s a cozy, filling casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cold-weather weekends. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming basic ingredients into a hearty dish full of flavor with little effort. No need to brown the beef separately or pre-cook the potatoes, just layer everything in the crockpot and let it simmer into cheesy, savory perfection.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 5 cups thinly sliced russet potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing slow cooker
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. No need to pre-cook the beef; it will cook thoroughly in the slow cooker.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker. Spoon and spread a portion of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Drizzle with a few spoonfuls of the creamy soup mixture and sprinkle with some shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Repeat the layers, potatoes, beef, creamy sauce, cheese, until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3½–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly.
Step 7: Turn off the heat and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Variation
- Use ground turkey or ground chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
- Add a layer of frozen mixed vegetables or sliced mushrooms for more texture and nutrients.
- Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cream of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Try pepper jack or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a new cheesy twist.
- For a smoky flavor, add ½ teaspoon liquid smoke or a dash of smoked paprika.
Cooking Note
Thinly slicing the potatoes is key to even, thorough cooking in the slow cooker. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to get uniform pieces. If you prefer a crispier top layer, transfer the finished casserole to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese. Always let the casserole sit for a few minutes after cooking to thicken slightly and make serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a full meal on its own, but it pairs well with simple sides like steamed green beans, buttered corn, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier dinner, serve with a slice of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls. It also makes great leftovers, just reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick, satisfying lunch the next day.
Tips
- Don’t skip greasing the crockpot, it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- You can layer raw or lightly browned beef; if using fattier beef, consider browning and draining excess fat first.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, it slows the process by releasing heat.
- For a creamier texture, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Shred cheese from a block for better melting and less oil compared to pre-shredded bags.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3½–4 hours (high)
Total Time: About 6 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480 per serving
Protein: 27g
Sodium: 710mg
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble everything the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just place the insert in the slow cooker and turn it on.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, allow leftovers to cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
- Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well, but russet potatoes give the best creamy texture when slow-cooked.
Is it okay to add vegetables?
- Absolutely. Add corn, green beans, peas, or mushrooms between the layers for extra nutrients and texture.
How do I make it less rich?
- Use light sour cream and substitute milk for part of the cream soup to reduce the richness while keeping the creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef and Potatoes Casserole is a family-friendly comfort meal that’s full of flavor, easy to assemble, and perfect for feeding a crowd. With layers of creamy sauce, hearty beef, and tender potatoes all topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at the dinner table. Plus, it’s a slow cooker recipe, which means minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday or planning a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your rotation.