Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
Description
Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, onions, vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce. Everything cooks together slowly, allowing the flavors to blend into a delicious family-friendly dinner. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or cozy weekend meals.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours on Low or 3–4 hours on High
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
Step 2
Lightly grease the slow cooker.
Step 3
Add diced potatoes, onions, garlic, and frozen mixed vegetables.
Step 4
Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the vegetables.
Step 5
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 6
Pour the sauce evenly over the ingredients.
Step 7
Cover and cook:
- Low: 6–7 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 8
If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top during the last 15 minutes of cooking and allow it to melt.
Step 9
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Recipe Notes
- Yukon Gold potatoes provide a creamier texture.
- Browning the beef first adds extra flavor.
- Frozen vegetables can be added without thawing.
- Stir gently before serving to distribute the sauce evenly.
- The recipe thickens as it cools slightly.
Tips for Success
- Dice potatoes into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Don’t overfill the slow cooker.
- Avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking.
- Add cheese only near the end to prevent separation.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth.
Variations
Cheesy Hash
Mix in extra cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Tex-Mex Style
Add taco seasoning, corn, black beans, and diced green chilies.
Bacon Lover’s Version
Top with crispy bacon before serving.
Creamier Version
Add 4 ounces of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes.
Spicy Version
Mix in diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
- Buttered dinner rolls
- Garlic bread
- Green salad
- Steamed broccoli
- Coleslaw
- Roasted green beans
Servings
Makes: 6 servings
Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Potassium: 880mg
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 3mg
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredients used.
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: Ground beef supports muscle maintenance and repair.
- Energy-Rich: Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Vegetable Nutrients: Mixed vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Comforting & Filling: A balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates helps keep you satisfied.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well, making it convenient for busy schedules.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth if needed.
- Warm in a 325°F (163°C) oven, covered, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner version.
2. Do I have to brown the beef first?
It’s recommended because it improves flavor and removes excess fat, but you can skip this step if you’re using very lean beef and are short on time.
3. Can I use fresh vegetables?
Absolutely. Fresh carrots, peas, green beans, and corn all work well.
4. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cream soup and ensure the Worcestershire sauce and broth are certified gluten-free.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Omit the cheese and use a dairy-free cream soup alternative.
6. Why are my potatoes still firm?
They may have been cut too large, your slow cooker may cook cooler than average, or the lid may have been opened frequently. Cook a bit longer until tender.
7. Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes. Assemble the ingredients (keeping the browned beef and sauce refrigerated), then combine everything in the slow cooker the next day before cooking.
8. What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a cheddar blend also melt beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash is an easy, satisfying meal that combines simple pantry ingredients into a rich and flavorful dinner with minimal hands-on effort. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings, making it a dependable recipe for family meals, potlucks, or weekly meal prep.