Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and satisfying meal that’s a breeze to prepare, this Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole is the perfect recipe. This dish layers tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile—swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personal touch. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy Preparation: Minimal prep and the slow cooker do all the work for you.
2. Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
3. One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean, making your life easier.
4. Family Approved: A comfort food classic that pleases even picky eaters.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
2. Cook the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Season: Stir in smoked paprika, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Slice the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds, about ⅛ inch thick. A mandoline slicer works well for consistent slices.
2. Season: Lightly season the potato slices with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole in the Slow Cooker

1. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Begin with a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the slow cooker.
   • Add a layer of the seasoned ground beef mixture.
   • Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the beef.
   • Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, beef broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook the Casserole

1. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The casserole is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender, and the flavors are well combined.
2. Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top. Cover and allow it to melt.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips for Success

1. Use Uniform Potato Slices: Thin, even slices ensure the potatoes cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
2. Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a smoky Gouda for a unique twist.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: For a larger batch, use a larger slow cooker to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
4. Test for Doneness: Check the potatoes with a fork before serving to make sure they’re tender.

Variations

Protein Swaps

• Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.

Add More Veggies

• Layer in zucchini, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.

Spice It Up

• Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat.

Gluten-Free

• Ensure all ingredients, including Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and start the slow cooker the next day.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter flavor and additional nutrients.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but note that the sauce will be slightly less creamy.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy days. It’s easy to prepare, full of hearty ingredients, and so satisfying. The combination of tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and creamy, cheesy layers will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Yield: 6

Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe

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If you're looking for a hearty, comforting, and satisfying meal that's a breeze to prepare, this Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole is the perfect recipe. This dish layers tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Casserole
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon gold or russet work well)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• For Garnish
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
   Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
   
2. Mix the Sauce
   In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well blended.
   
3. Layer the Casserole
   Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
   Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
   Add a portion of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
   Sprinkle with a handful of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
   Pour some of the soup mixture over the top.
   Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a cheese layer.
   
4. Cook the Casserole
   Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
   
5. Serve and Garnish
   Once cooked, sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top, if desired, and let it melt for 5 minutes.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Vegetable Additions: Add thinly sliced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or Gruyere for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead: Assemble the layers in the slow cooker the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Start cooking the next morning.