Hamburger Potato Cheese Casserole

This cheesy crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole is one of those set it and forget it dinners I turn to when I need something filling and guaranteed to get smiles at the table. Each bite features tender potatoes, hearty ground beef, savory Italian sausage, and a creamy sauce that holds it all together with melty cheddar cheese. It has saved me on rushed weeknights more times than I can count, and nobody can ever resist a second helping.

I made this for the first time when my kids invited friends over after soccer practice. The casserole disappeared before I even sat down. Now my friends ask me for the recipe all the time.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: sliced evenly to absorb flavors and cook up creamy Choose firm potatoes without soft spots
• Ground beef: for a classic hearty base Look for an 80 or 85 percent lean grind for the best flavor
• Italian sausage: brings a savory kick If choosing between mild and spicy pick what your family prefers
• Sweet onion: diced finely so it melts into the sauce Use a firm onion for sweeter less pungent taste
• Fresh garlic: minced for deeper flavor Always use plump firm cloves for the brightest aroma
• Cream of chicken soup: provides creamy texture Choose low sodium or organic if possible
• Milk: ensures a silky sauce Whole or two percent works best for richness
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes: simple seasonings to round everything out Taste for seasoning before serving
• Cheddar cheese: shredded for melty topping and bold finish Pick a sharp cheddar and grate it yourself for better flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Meats:

Cook ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned on all sides Break up clumps and spread them out for even cooking

Add Aromatics:

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet Sauté about two minutes until everything is fragrant and the onions begin to turn translucent Stir constantly so the garlic does not burn

Mix in Sauce Ingredients:

Transfer the meat mixture to your crockpot Add cream of chicken soup milk salt pepper garlic powder and red pepper flakes Stir everything together thoroughly making sure the sauce coats all the meat

Combine With Potatoes:

Add your evenly sliced potatoes into the crockpot Gently toss and fold everything so the potatoes are mostly submerged in the sauce Make sure the sauce reaches the bottom of the slow cooker

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover the crockpot Cook on low for four hours or high for two hours Stir halfway through to check that potatoes are nestled beneath the liquid

Top and Finish:

Scatter shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole Let cook for another one to two hours until the cheese melts and potatoes are fork tender The casserole should be bubbly and easy to serve

Serve:

Dish out warm servings straight from the crockpot Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets up a bit making it easier to scoop onto plates

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The combo of Italian sausage and sharp cheddar is my favorite part of this casserole I will never forget when my youngest declared it tasted like pizza and potatoes mixed together which now has become a running family joke

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool to room temperature then cover and refrigerate in an airtight container It keeps well for three to four days For longer storage portion and freeze servings wrapped individually or in freezer safe containers Warm gently in the microwave or oven before serving Stir halfway when reheating to ensure even warming

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap half the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option Change up the shredded cheese with Monterey Jack Colby or mozzarella You can also use cream of mushroom or celery soup in place of cream of chicken

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Serving Suggestions

Spoon generous portions into bowls and serve with crusty bread or a crisp green salad For special occasions garnish with fresh chives or parsley Sliced pickles or a spoonful of grainy mustard on the side adds a tangy contrast

Cultural Context

Casseroles have long been a staple in American home kitchens as an easy way to make dinners that stretch ingredients and feed everyone This recipe combines influences from classic meat and potato comfort food with a bit of Italian flair thanks to the sausage and seasonings

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used for a creamier or slightly firmer texture. Slice evenly for best results.

→ Is it possible to substitute the meat?

Certainly, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef or sausage for a lighter variation.

→ How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

Slice potatoes to the recommended thickness and avoid overcooking, especially in the oven method. Thicker slices hold shape better in the slow cooker.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Add thinly sliced bell peppers, peas, or corn for extra flavor and color without altering the cook time significantly.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat covered in the oven or in the microwave in short intervals to prevent the cheese from drying out.