Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole
There’s nothing quite like a hearty beef and potato casserole to warm you up on a chilly day. And when it’s prepared in a slow cooker, it’s practically effortless! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Simply set it up in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
To make this savory casserole, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef, browned
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pro Tip: For added flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef as it browns.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, layer the ingredients as follows:
- A layer of thinly sliced potatoes
- A sprinkle of chopped onions
- A portion of the browned ground beef
- A handful of shredded cheddar cheese
Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used up.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Pour this sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
Pro Tip: For a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of milk.
4. Cook on Low Heat
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-8 hours. The potatoes should be tender, and the flavors will have melded together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for a balanced, hearty dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a bit of freshness.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Add sliced carrots or celery for extra veggies.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
- Add sliced bell peppers for a bit of sweetness and color.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through.
Pro Tip: For a crispier texture, reheat in an oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker beef and potato casserole is the epitome of comfort food. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s perfect for days when you want a hearty meal without the fuss. The potatoes soak up the creamy sauce and the cheese melts into gooey perfection, creating a dish that’s as cozy as it is delicious.
