This Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dinner made with tender red potatoes, savory ground beef, onions, and flavorful seasonings. Everything cooks together in the slow cooker, allowing the potatoes to absorb the rich beef broth while the ingredients develop a delicious homemade flavor.
Finished with melted cheddar or mozzarella cheese, this easy ground beef casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, and simple meal planning. With affordable ingredients and minimal preparation, it is a satisfying one-pot meal that the whole family can enjoy.
Recipe Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6–7 hours on Low or 3–4 hours on High |
| Total Time | Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 |
| Cooking Method | Slow cooker |
| Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Main Ingredients | Ground beef, red potatoes, onions, beef broth, cheese |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker beef and potato casserole combines simple ingredients into a filling, flavorful meal with very little hands-on work. The potatoes become tender as they absorb the seasoned broth, while the ground beef adds rich, savory flavor. Melted cheese creates a delicious finishing touch, making this recipe ideal for family dinners, colder evenings, and anyone looking for an easy slow cooker meal.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Potato Casserole
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Red potatoes | 4–5 medium, diced |
| Ground beef | 1–1½ pounds (450–680 g) |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium, diced |
| Beef broth | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon, optional |
| Herbes de Provence or dried Italian herbs | ½ teaspoon, optional |
For the Cheesy Topping (Optional)
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese | 1 cup (100–115 g) |
| Fresh parsley or chives | 1–2 tablespoons, chopped |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Onion
Wash the red potatoes thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized cubes, approximately ¾ inch in size. You can leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor.
Dice the yellow onion and place both the potatoes and onion in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Cutting the potatoes into similarly sized pieces helps them cook evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and no pink remains.
Drain excess fat, then transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker and spread it over the potatoes and onions.
Browning the beef first improves the flavor and helps prevent excess grease from collecting in the finished casserole.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional dried herbs over the beef and vegetables.
Stir gently to distribute the seasonings as evenly as possible without breaking up the potato pieces.
Step 4: Pour in the Beef Broth
Pour the beef broth around the sides of the slow cooker. This helps provide moisture for the potatoes and creates a flavorful cooking liquid.
The broth should moisten the ingredients without completely submerging them. If your slow cooker tends to run hot or your potatoes are particularly large, you may need a small additional splash of broth.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Casserole
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is thoroughly heated.
- Low: Approximately 5–6 hours.
- High: Approximately 3–4 hours.
Cooking times vary depending on the slow cooker, potato size, and quantity of ingredients. Begin checking the potatoes toward the earlier end of the cooking window by piercing them with a fork. They should be tender without falling apart.
Because the ground beef has been browned beforehand, the main goal is to cook the potatoes until tender and allow the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar or mozzarella evenly over the casserole.
Replace the lid and let the cheese melt. For a stronger flavor, use sharp cheddar; for a milder, stretchy topping, choose mozzarella.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are tender and the cheese has melted, gently stir the casserole if you prefer the beef and potatoes evenly mixed. Alternatively, leave the melted cheese on top for a more traditional casserole presentation.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives and serve hot.
Best Tips
Brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker for deeper flavor and a less greasy finish. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate, and place them at the bottom of the slow cooker where they receive plenty of heat. Avoid adding too much salt before tasting the broth, especially if you use store-bought beef broth. For the best texture, check the potatoes before the end of the suggested cooking time and add the cheese only during the final 15 minutes.
Best Ingredient Options
Red potatoes hold their shape well during slow cooking, but Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice because they have a naturally buttery texture. Lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease, while regular ground beef provides a richer flavor. Beef broth creates a deeper savory taste, although vegetable broth can be used instead. Cheddar adds a sharp, cheesy flavor, while mozzarella provides a milder, stretchy topping.
Recipe Variations
For a creamy beef and potato casserole, stir in ½ cup of sour cream or a little cream cheese after cooking. Add diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or carrots for extra vegetables. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. You can also add a little Worcestershire-style seasoning if desired, checking the label for suitable ingredients, or sprinkle additional cheese over individual servings.
What to Serve With Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
This casserole is filling enough to serve as a complete meal, but it pairs especially well with steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, glazed carrots, or a fresh green salad. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the savory broth. For a lighter side, serve it with cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To save time, dice the onion and measure the seasonings up to one day ahead. Store them in covered containers in the refrigerator. You can also brown the ground beef in advance, cool it promptly, and refrigerate it until you are ready to assemble the casserole.
For the best texture, cut the potatoes shortly before cooking to limit discoloration. Keep all prepared ingredients refrigerated and avoid leaving raw or cooked meat at room temperature for extended periods.
Storage
Allow leftovers to cool slightly, then transfer them to airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Store for 3–4 days.
The potatoes may absorb more broth as the casserole sits, making the mixture thicker. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating if needed.
Reheating
For individual portions, place the casserole in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring halfway through.
To reheat a larger portion, transfer it to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a little broth to prevent the potatoes from drying out.
Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Freezing
This casserole can be frozen, although cooked potatoes may become softer or slightly grainy after thawing. Allow the dish to cool, divide it into freezer-safe portions, and seal tightly.
Freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. Add a little broth if the mixture seems dry, and sprinkle fresh cheese over the top during reheating if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cutting the potatoes into large, uneven chunks, because some pieces may remain firm while others become too soft. Do not skip browning the ground beef if you want a richer flavor and less excess grease. Adding too much broth can make the casserole watery, while too little may cause the potatoes to dry out. Finally, do not add the cheese too early, as prolonged cooking can make it oily or affect its texture.
Nutrition Estimate
Approximate values per serving, based on six servings and using ground beef, potatoes, beef broth, and cheddar cheese. Actual nutrition varies according to the beef’s fat content, cheese choice, and portion size.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 29 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450–750 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to peel the red potatoes?
No. Red potato skins are thin and can be left on after washing. Keeping the skins adds texture and helps the potatoes hold their shape during slow cooking.
Can I put raw ground beef directly into the slow cooker?
Browning the beef first is recommended because it improves flavor and allows you to drain excess fat. It also makes it easier to break the meat into small, evenly browned pieces.
Why are my potatoes still firm?
Potato size, variety, and slow cooker temperature can affect cooking time. Cut the potatoes into smaller, evenly sized cubes and continue cooking until a fork slides easily into them. Avoid repeatedly lifting the lid, as this releases heat.
Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Yes. The cheese is optional, and the casserole remains hearty and flavorful without it. Fresh parsley or chives can add a fresh finishing touch.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes. Vegetable broth works well if you prefer a lighter flavor or do not have beef broth available. Choose a low-sodium version if you want more control over the seasoning.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Diced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers are good additions. Cut firmer vegetables into small pieces so they have enough time to become tender.
Is this casserole good for meal prep?
Yes. Divide the cooked casserole into individual containers and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat thoroughly and add a splash of broth if the mixture has thickened.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Choose certified gluten-free beef broth and check the labels of your seasonings and cheese to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly dinner that combines tender potatoes, savory beef, aromatic onions, and melted cheese in one convenient dish. With simple ingredients and minimal hands-on preparation, it is a practical choice for busy weeknights and family meals.
Serve it warm with your favorite vegetables, fresh bread, or a crisp salad. Whether you enjoy it cheesy or keep it simple, this hearty slow cooker casserole is an easy recipe to add to your regular dinner rotation.