Easy slow cooker casserole with ground beef, sliced potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese in a creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.
Total Time:6 hours 20 minutes - 8 hours 20 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Slow Cooker
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
4–5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick, peeling optional)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild), divided
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley or chopped chives
Instructions
Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until beef is browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
Wash and thinly slice potatoes to about 1/8 inch thickness for even cooking. Pat dry if needed.
In a 5-6 quart crockpot, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then half of the cooked beef and onion mixture, followed by 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and another 3/4 cup cheese. Save remaining 1/2 cup cheese for topping.
In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour evenly over layered ingredients.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours) until potatoes are fork-tender. Do not stir during cooking.
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top. Cover to melt. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
Use a 5-6 quart slow cooker for this recipe. A mandoline or sharp knife helps slice potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
Drain beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole. Extra fat will pool on top during cooking.
Peeling potatoes is optional. Yukon gold skins are tender and add nutrients, while russet skins may be tougher.
Do not stir the casserole during cooking to maintain distinct layers.
If casserole looks dry halfway through cooking, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup milk or broth.
Freezes well for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 serving (approximately 1/6th of casserole, about 1.5 cups)