Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash

by

This Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender potatoes, all topped with melted cheese, this meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Just set it and forget it for an easy, delicious dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 cup white onion, diced
  • ¼ tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp. pepper
  • ½ tsp. garlic powder
  • 21.5 oz. cream of mushroom soup (two 10.75 oz. cans, do not add water)
  • 15.25 oz. can corn, drained well
  • 1 ½ lbs. russet potatoes (about 5 cups diced, cut into small ½-inch cubes)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheese, divided

Directions:

  1. Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion together. Drain the fat.
  2. Prepare Potatoes: Wash and dry the potatoes, then cut them into small cubes, leaving the skin on. Add the potatoes to the slow cooker.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the cooked meat and onion mixture over the potatoes in the slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, corn, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir to combine, then spread the hash into a flat layer.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
  5. Add Cheese: After 5 hours, add the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the hash. Cover and let the cheese melt for about 10 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 hours
  • Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips :

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish: Before serving, you can garnish the hash with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
  2. Pairings: Serve the hamburger hash with a side of crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
  3. Variations: Customize the dish by adding your favorite toppings such as sour cream, salsa, avocado slices, or hot sauce to enhance the flavor and texture.
  4. Make it a Breakfast: This hash is not only perfect for dinner but also makes a hearty breakfast option. Serve it alongside fried or scrambled eggs for a delicious morning meal.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.
  2. Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen hash, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
  4. Batch Cooking: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing individual portions for convenient meals on busy days. This is especially handy for meal prep or for feeding a larger family.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash, ensuring it stays fresh and delicious for every serving. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or breakfast, or storing leftovers for later, this comforting dish is sure to satisfy your cravings with ease!

Variations :

1. Cheesy Bacon Hamburger Hash

  • Add Bacon: Cook and crumble bacon before adding it to the slow cooker for an extra savory flavor. Sprinkle with additional cheese before serving.

2. Vegetarian Hamburger Hash

  • Substitute Meat: Replace the ground beef with vegetarian ground beef crumbles or diced tofu for a meatless version. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

3. Southwest Hamburger Hash

  • Add Tex-Mex Flavors: Mix in a can of black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a packet of taco seasoning for a spicy twist. Top with sliced avocado and a dollop of sour cream.

4. Italian Hamburger Hash

  • Italian Seasoning: Season the dish with Italian seasoning blend and add diced tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, and chopped bell peppers. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

5. Loaded Potato Hamburger Hash

  • Top with Toppings: After cooking, top the hash with your favorite loaded potato toppings such as sour cream, chives, bacon bits, and additional shredded cheese.

6. Asian-Inspired Hamburger Hash

  • Soy Sauce and Ginger: Add soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the mixture for an Asian flair. Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

7. Buffalo Hamburger Hash

  • Buffalo Sauce: Mix in buffalo sauce and crumbled blue cheese for a spicy and tangy twist. Top with chopped celery for added crunch.

8. Mediterranean Hamburger Hash

  • Greek Flavors: Add diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice.

9. Cajun Hamburger Hash

  • Cajun Seasoning: Season the dish with Cajun seasoning and add sliced andouille sausage for a flavorful Cajun-inspired hash.

10. Breakfast Hamburger Hash

  • Add Eggs: Make wells in the hash and crack eggs into them. Cook until the eggs are set for a delicious breakfast twist. Serve with hot sauce or salsa.

11. BBQ Hamburger Hash

  • BBQ Sauce: Mix in your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy flavor. Top with crispy onion strings for added texture.

12. Seafood Hamburger Hash

  • Seafood Addition: Add cooked shrimp or crab meat to the hash for a surf and turf twist. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

13. Indian-Inspired Hamburger Hash

  • Curry Powder: Stir in curry powder and diced tomatoes for an Indian-inspired flavor profile. Serve with naan bread or rice.

14. Caprese Hamburger Hash

  • Caprese Twist: Add cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese for a Caprese-inspired hash. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Experimenting with these variations allows you to create new and exciting flavors of Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash to suit your taste preferences and culinary adventures.

FAQs:

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Adjust the seasonings to taste.

2. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Brown the meat using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 8 minutes, followed by a quick release.

3. Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

You can leave the skin on the potatoes for added texture and nutrition. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before dicing.

4. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh or frozen corn kernels can be used instead of canned corn. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using fresh corn.

5. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you prefer, you can substitute cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.

6. Can I add additional vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to customize the hash by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, peas, or green beans.

7. Can I use different types of cheese?

Certainly! Experiment with different cheese varieties such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack to change up the flavor.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include diced jalapeños, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to the mixture, or serve with hot sauce on the side.

Try this Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash recipe for a delicious and convenient dinner option that’s sure to become a family favorite!