Name: Comforting Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs lean ground beef; 4 cups Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, low-sodium; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans), thawed; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

This Comforting Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines tender beef, creamy potatoes, and rich flavors. Perfect for busy days, it simmers all day in the slow cooker, filling your home with warmth and savory aromas, ready to enjoy with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker casserole is a lifesaver for those craving a wholesome, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy ground beef, soft potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a comforting dish that appeals to all ages. It’s incredibly versatile—use your favorite vegetables or cheese to customize it. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld perfectly. Ideal for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Brown the Beef: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor by caramelizing the meat.
Layer Evenly: Spread ingredients evenly in the slow cooker to ensure consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
Check Potato Size: Cut potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking; smaller chunks cook faster.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before cooking and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
Avoid Overcooking: Stick to the recommended cooking time to prevent mushy potatoes.
Add Cheese Last: Stir in cheese during the last 30 minutes to avoid curdling and achieve a creamy texture.
Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor.
Thicken if Needed: If the casserole is too watery, mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water near the end.

Yield: Serves 6

Comforting Slow Cooker Beef and Potato Casserole

Hearty beef and potato casserole, slow-cooked to perfection with creamy, cheesy goodness—ideal for cozy family dinners.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

1.5 lbs lean ground beef
4 cups Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, low-sodium
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans), thawed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

<ol><li>Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat for a lighter dish. This step adds a rich, caramelized flavor to your casserole.</li><li>Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.</li><li>Layer the Potatoes: Spread the diced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. Uniform pieces ensure they cook perfectly.</li><li>Add Aromatics: Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the potatoes. These add a savory depth that makes every bite delicious.</li><li>Add Beef: Spoon the browned ground beef over the potato layer, spreading it evenly for consistent flavor in every serving.</li><li>Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth, then pour over the beef and potatoes.</li><li>Add Vegetables: Scatter the thawed mixed vegetables on top. They’ll add vibrant color and a boost of nutrition to your dish.</li><li>Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender and flavors meld.</li><li>Add Cheese: In the last 30 minutes, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Cover and let it melt into creamy goodness.</li><li>Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy comfort!</li></ol>

Notes

For a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup sour cream before adding cheese.
If the casserole is too watery, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to thicken.
Double-check potato tenderness before serving; extend cooking time if needed.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 619Total Fat 31gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 143mgSodium 1210mgCarbohydrates 37gFiber 5gSugar 6gProtein 48g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (80/20) to balance flavor and reduce grease; drain excess fat after browning.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best for their starchy texture, creating a creamy consistency when cooked.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds a rich, savory base; choose low-sodium to control saltiness.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, but mild cheddar or a blend works well too.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics enhance depth; finely chop for even distribution or substitute with powder if preferred.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Peas, carrots, or green beans add color and nutrition; thaw slightly for quicker cooking.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control seasoning; it keeps the casserole moist without being soupy.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and paprika create a balanced flavor; adjust to taste for a personalized touch.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Potato Variations: Try sweet potatoes or red potatoes for a different flavor profile or texture.
Soup Substitutes: Use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup if mushroom isn’t your favorite.
Cheese Options: Experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for a unique twist.
Vegetable Swaps: Replace frozen vegetables with fresh zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for a seasonal touch.
Spice it Up: Add chili powder, cayenne, or smoked paprika for a smoky or spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream soup and broth for a celiac-friendly version.
Low-Carb: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly casserole.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring occasionally.
Meal Prep: Divide into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.