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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal simmering away in the slow cooker, filling your kitchen with enticing aromas. This Slow-Cooker Hamburger Hash is a twist on a classic comfort dish, inspired by an old-time recipe shared by my good friend Maria. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the ultimate comfort food, with savory beef, tender vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be adapted based on what you have on hand. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and how it brings the whole family together at the dinner table.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 12-inch skillet
- 5- to 6-quart slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 3 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
- 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 1/2 ounces) condensed French onion soup with beef stock
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 bag (28 ounces) frozen O’Brien potatoes with onions and peppers, thawed
- 4 medium carrots, diced (2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned. Drain the excess fat.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato puree and mushroom soup. Stir in the onion soup and water until well combined.
- Spray a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Reserve 1 cup of the potatoes for later use. Gently mix the cooked beef, remaining potatoes, diced carrots, salt, and the soup mixture in the slow cooker. Top with the reserved 1 cup of potatoes.
- Cover and cook on the low heat setting for 8 to 9 hours, or until the vegetables are tender. The hash can be kept warm on the low heat setting for up to 2 hours after cooking.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the beef is fully drained to prevent a greasy texture in the final dish.
- Thaw the frozen potatoes before adding them to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
- Cut the carrots into uniform pieces for consistent texture.
Additional Tips and Variations
- If you prefer fresh ingredients, substitute the frozen O’Brien potatoes with fresh potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.
- Add some spice with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of paprika.
- For a cheesy twist, top with shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will slightly reduce the fat content.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Slow-Cooker Hamburger Hash is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty, homemade meal with minimal preparation. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish has you covered. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments below. Bon appétit!
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