Crock-Pot Hamburger Casserole
A hearty and comforting crock-pot casserole featuring tender potatoes, carrots, peas, onions, celery, and seasoned ground beef in a savory tomato soup base. Perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place layers of sliced potatoes, carrots, peas, onions, and celery in a greased crock-pot in the specified order.
- Season each layer with salt and pepper.
- Lightly brown the hamburger and place it on top of the celery layer.
- Mix the tomato soup with water and pour the mixture over the layered vegetables and meat.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 2 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally if using high setting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of cheese between the vegetables, or use cream of mushroom soup instead of tomato soup. If you're short on time, pre-cooked frozen vegetables can be substituted for fresh ones. For a heartier meal, include cooked bacon or sausage alongside the hamburger. Adjust seasoning according to your preference, and try using garlic powder for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, serve alongside some steamed green beans or a side of June'S Baked Beans for a sweet complement. It’s also great topped with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 838 calories, with 24g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (123% of the Daily Value), and potassium (82% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger in this casserole. It will provide a lighter option while still offering a satisfying texture. Just be sure to season it well, as turkey tends to be milder in flavor. Cook it thoroughly before adding it to the layers.
How do I adjust cooking time for a larger batch?
If you're making a larger batch, increase the cooking time by about 1 hour on low or 30 minutes on high. Ensure that the ingredients are layered evenly, and check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork. They should be tender before serving.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, assemble the layers as directed, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as directed. For leftovers, freeze portions in airtight containers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).