Description
This Slow Cooker Hobo Casserole is a comforting, hearty one-pot meal featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and cheddar cheese all slow-cooked to perfection. Cream of mushroom soup and milk create a creamy sauce that melds everything together, making it an ideal easy family dinner or meal prep option.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain the excess grease to reduce fat content, then season the meat evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This step enhances flavor before slow cooking.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer Ingredients: Start by placing half of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then layer half of the sliced onions, half of the seasoned ground beef, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, beef, and cheese to build a flavorful casserole.
- Mix and Pour Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients inside the slow cooker. Add the optional frozen peas or corn now if you’re using them for added texture and nutrition.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook the casserole on low heat for 6 to 7 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The dish is done when the potatoes are tender and flavors have melded beautifully. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired for a cheesy finish.
- Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, serve the casserole warm. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions to add a burst of color and fresh flavor, if you like.
Notes
- For a different flavor profile, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage.
- This casserole is perfect for meal prepping and reheats exceptionally well for quick lunches or dinners.
