Name: Crockpot Loaded Beef and Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485556H4M58S
Total time: PT-485556H4M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)

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Crockpot Loaded Beef and Potato Bake a hearty and comforting slow-cooker dish combining tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melty cheese, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup beef broth

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Then, I drain the excess fat.

I add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then I season everything with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

I lightly grease the crockpot insert. Then, I layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom.

I spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.

Next, I dollop half of the sour cream over the beef, followed by sprinkling half the cheddar cheese on top.

I repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, sour cream, and cheese.

I pour the beef broth evenly over the layers to keep the potatoes moist during cooking.

I cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

Before serving, I garnish with sliced green onions if I want a fresh pop of flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings. It takes roughly 15 minutes to prep and then cooks in the crockpot for 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high, which works perfectly for busy days when I want dinner ready without much hands-on time.

Variations

For a twist, I sometimes add cooked bacon pieces between the layers for extra smokiness.

I can swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture makes the dish more vegetable-packed.

Using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes adds a touch of natural sweetness.

To make it lighter, I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I cover the dish and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the potatoes seem a bit dry, I add a splash of beef broth before reheating to keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

I haven’t tried it myself, but I imagine swapping the ground beef for a plant-based crumble or cooked lentils could work well, paired with vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, I usually freeze leftovers in portion-sized containers. It reheats nicely from frozen in the microwave or oven, though the texture of potatoes may change slightly.

What type of potatoes work best?

I prefer using starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture after slow cooking, but Yukon Golds can also be a great choice for their buttery flavor.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

I’d recommend fresh potatoes because frozen ones may become too mushy during the long cooking process.

How do I prevent the potatoes from drying out?

Pouring the beef broth over the layers is key for moisture. Also, cooking on low heat helps keep everything tender without drying out.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Loaded Beef and Potato Bake has become one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s easy to throw together, fills the house with inviting aromas, and results in a dish that satisfies my cravings for something rich and hearty. Whether for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend dinner, it’s always a hit. I’m excited to keep experimenting with the variations to keep it fresh and fun.

Recipe:

Crockpot Loaded Beef and Potato Bake

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A hearty and comforting slow-cooker dish combining tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melty cheese, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Instructions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
Season beef mixture with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Lightly grease the crockpot insert.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the crockpot.
Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
Dollop half of the sour cream over the beef, then sprinkle half the cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, sour cream, and cheese.
Pour beef broth evenly over the layers.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions if desired.