Slow cooker hamburger hash has been my go-to for years when I need a comforting, no-fuss meal. I remember one particularly chaotic Tuesday evening; work was crazy, the kids had soccer practice, and dinner felt impossible. That’s when I remembered a recipe I’d bookmarked, and within minutes, I had this amazing easy slow cooker hamburger hash simmering away. The aroma of savory beef, potatoes, and onions filled the house, promising a delicious and satisfying end to a long day. This isn’t just any hash; it’s a true slow cooker ground beef and potato hash that brings everyone to the table. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
There are so many reasons this recipe is a winner!
- Incredible Flavor: The slow cooking process melds all the ingredients into a wonderfully savory and comforting dish.
- Minimal Prep Time: With only 20 minutes of hands-on prep, you can get this meal started and forget about it.
- Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry staples and ground beef makes this a very economical meal for the whole family.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this delicious blend of beef, potatoes, and cheese – it’s pure comfort food!
- One-Pot Wonder: This one pot slow cooker hamburger hash means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
- Hearty and Filling: It’s a truly hearty slow cooker hamburger hash that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- Healthy-ish: Packed with protein from the beef and complex carbs from the potatoes, it’s a balanced meal option.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this amazing ground beef hash slow cooker meal. You’ll find that most of these are pantry staples, making this recipe super convenient.
- 450 g ground beef – I like to use 85/15 for the best flavor and moisture.
- 160 g white onion, diced – about 1 medium onion; it adds a lovely savory base.
- 680 g russet potatoes, cut into 1.25 cm cubes, skin on – leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients!
- 0.25 tsp fine salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper – a classic pairing with beef.
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder – for that extra punch of savory goodness.
- 610 g cream of mushroom soup – this is the magic ingredient that makes the hash so creamy and flavorful.
- 430 g canned corn, thoroughly drained – adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
- 200 g sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided – half goes in the slow cooker, and the rest on top for maximum cheesy goodness!
How to Make This Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe
Let’s get this delicious meal going! Making this slow cooker hamburger hash is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. It’s truly one of the easiest hamburger hash slow cooker meals you’ll ever prepare.
- Step 1: Grab a large skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Add your 450 g ground beef and the 160 g diced white onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the meat is nicely browned and the onion is softened. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat; we want flavor, not grease!
- Step 2: While the beef is browning, prepare your potatoes. Rinse your 680 g russet potatoes and pat them dry. Cut them into uniform 1.25 cm cubes. Leaving the skin on is my secret for a lovely texture and extra fiber.
- Step 3: Now it’s time to assemble everything in your slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes to the bottom. Then, spoon the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes. Next, stir in the 610 g cream of mushroom soup, 0.25 tsp fine salt, 0.25 tsp ground black pepper, and 0.5 tsp garlic powder. Add the 430 g canned corn, thoroughly drained. Finally, sprinkle in about half of your 200 g sharp Cheddar cheese. Stir everything gently to combine and then spread it out into an even layer. This is the core of how to make slow cooker hamburger hash.
- Step 4: Put the lid on your slow cooker. Set it to low and let it cook for 5 hours. The key here is to keep the lid closed! Resist the temptation to peek, as this allows the heat to circulate evenly and cook the potatoes perfectly tender.
- Step 5: After 5 hours, carefully remove the lid. You’ll be greeted by a wonderfully savory aroma! Sprinkle the remaining 200 g sharp Cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place the lid back on and let it stand for about 10 minutes. This short rest allows the cheese to melt into gooey perfection, completing your wonderful slow cooker beef hash recipe.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
Want to elevate your hash game? These simple tricks will ensure your slow cooker hamburger hash is absolutely perfect every time.
- Don’t Skip Draining the Fat: After browning the ground beef, thoroughly drain off the excess fat. This prevents a greasy hash and allows the other flavors to shine.
- Uniform Potato Cubes: Cutting your potatoes into consistent 1.25 cm cubes ensures they cook evenly. Nobody likes half mushy, half hard potatoes!
- Resist Peeking: The slow cooker works best with a closed lid. Every time you lift it, you lose precious heat, extending the cooking time.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before adding the final cheese, give the hash a quick taste. You might want a little more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
What’s the secret to a perfect tender slow cooker hamburger hash?
The secret to a truly tender slow cooker hamburger hash lies in the cream of mushroom soup and patience. The soup acts as a binder and adds moisture, while cooking on low for the full 5 hours ensures the potatoes become perfectly fork-tender without getting mushy. For more tips on slow cooking, check out these slow cooker tips.
Can I make this slow cooker hash with ground beef ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prep the ingredients through step 3 (browning the beef and onion, cubing potatoes, and assembling everything in the slow cooker except the final cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate the slow cooker insert. You may need to add an extra 30-60 minutes to the cooking time if cooking from cold.
How do I avoid common mistakes with slow cooker beef hash recipes?
A common pitfall is not draining the grease from the beef, leading to a greasy final dish. Another mistake is opening the slow cooker lid too often, which disrupts the cooking temperature. Finally, ensure your potatoes are cut to a uniform size for even cooking. Understanding the science of cooking can help prevent these issues.
Best Ways to Serve Your Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
Once your slow cooker hamburger hash is ready, the possibilities for serving are endless! For a truly satisfying experience, I love to serve it piping hot right out of the slow cooker. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra goodness. These hamburger hash slow cooker meals are also fantastic for breakfast or brunch – imagine a scoop of this savory hash alongside scrambled eggs and a side of toast!
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
This slow cooker hamburger hash is a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, based on the recipe as written:
- Calories: 425
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on nutritional guidelines, you can refer to the USDA MyPlate website.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Ground Beef Hash
Leftovers of this delicious slow cooker ground beef hash are a lifesaver! Once the hash has cooled slightly, transfer it into airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, this hash freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it should last for up to 3 months. Proper storage ensures your slow cooker hamburger hash remains tasty for future meals.
To reheat, you have a few great options. For the best results, gently warm individual portions in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through for even heating. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first before using your preferred reheating method. You can find more food storage tips here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
What is slow cooker hamburger hash?
What is slow cooker hamburger hash? It’s a hearty, comforting dish made by combining ground beef, potatoes, onions, and seasonings in a slow cooker. The magic happens as everything simmers together for hours, creating tender meat and perfectly cooked vegetables in a savory sauce, often finished with melted cheese. It’s essentially a deconstructed shepherd’s pie or a savory breakfast hash made incredibly easy.
Why use a slow cooker for hamburger hash?
Why use a slow cooker for hamburger hash? The slow cooker is perfect because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the ingredients incredibly tender. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal, meaning minimal hands-on time for you. This method also ensures the potatoes cook through perfectly without becoming mushy, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Consider exploring other slow cooker recipes for more convenience.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! While this is a slow cooker hamburger hash, you can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to brown the meat substitute first and drain any excess fat, like with the ground beef, to maintain the best flavor and texture in your hash.
What are some good additions to slow cooker ground beef hash?
You can really customize this slow cooker ground beef hash! Some popular additions include diced bell peppers (add with onions), mushrooms, a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Some people even like to add a can of diced tomatoes or a bit of beef broth for a saucier consistency. For more ideas on flavor enhancers, check out these flavor boosting ingredients.
Variations of Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash You Can Try
This delicious slow cooker hamburger hash is incredibly versatile! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño along with the onions and beef when browning for a little heat.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like diced sweet potatoes and bell peppers. Ensure you still brown the veggies before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Cheesy Broccoli Bake: Stir in a cup of steamed broccoli florets and an extra half cup of cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a different cheesy flavor profile.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika with the other seasonings to give your hash a wonderful smoky depth that complements the beef beautifully.
Speedy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash
- Total Time: 320 min
- Yield: 6 Servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This hearty slow cooker hamburger hash recipe is a simple, set-it-and-forget-it meal. It combines ground beef, potatoes, and cheese for a delicious one-pot dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 450 g ground beef
- 160 g white onion, diced
- 680 g russet potatoes, cut into 1.25 cm cubes, skin on
- 0.25 tsp fine salt
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 610 g cream of mushroom soup
- 430 g canned corn, thoroughly drained
- 200 g sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until cooked through; drain excess fat.
- Rinse and pat dry the russet potatoes. Cut into 1.25 cm cubes, leaving the skin on for texture and nutrients.
- Add cubed potatoes to the slow cooker. Top with the cooked beef and onion mixture. Incorporate cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, drained corn, and half the shredded cheese. Stir evenly and spread into a flat layer.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 hours, keeping the lid closed throughout the cooking process for even doneness.
- Remove the lid and distribute the remaining cheese over the hash. Cover again and let stand for 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt before serving.
Notes
- This hearty dish develops deeper flavors when cooked slowly.
- The potato skin adds texture and nutritional value.
- Can be prepared through step 3 the night before and refrigerated.
- Excellent source of complete protein and complex carbohydrates.
- Feeds a family of four with generous leftovers.
- Perfect for meal prepping lunches throughout the week.
- For effortless cleanup, use a slow cooker liner.
- If potatoes aren’t fully tender after 5 hours, cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- For a crispy top, transfer to a broiler-safe dish and broil for 2 minutes after cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 300 min
- Category: Instant Pot & Slow Cooker
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: N/A
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