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Easy Crockpot Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: 5 Simple Ingredients

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This Easy Crockpot Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a simple, comforting meal made with just five ingredients. It’s perfect for busy days, requiring minimal prep and delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
  • 4–5 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and sliced into 1/8 to 1/4 inch rounds
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 8 oz)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, chopped chives, or green onions

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink (about 6-8 minutes). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the potatoes: While the beef is browning, wash and peel the potatoes (if desired). Slice them into even rounds, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.
  3. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and dry onion soup mix. Stir until well combined.
  4. Layer the casserole: Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Start with a layer of potato slices, overlapping slightly. Spread about a third of the browned beef over the potatoes. Drop spoonfuls of the soup mixture over the beef and spread gently. Sprinkle about a third of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a final layer of potatoes topped with the remaining soup mixture and cheese.
  5. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking.
  6. Rest before serving: Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the casserole rest, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes to allow it to set up.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, or green onions if desired. Scoop into bowls and serve hot.

Notes

For best texture, slice potatoes evenly and avoid overcooking. Shred your own cheese for smoother melting. Let the casserole rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot, ground beef, potato casserole, slow cooker, easy, 5 ingredients, comfort food, budget-friendly