Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe
I’m so excited to share this Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe with you—it’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate, especially after a busy day. What I love most is how effortlessly everything comes together in the slow cooker, turning simple ingredients into something hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s a huge hit with the family, which makes it even better in my book.
This recipe shines when you want to set it and forget it, whether you’re rushing home from work or looking for an easy weekend meal. The combination of shredded potatoes, browned ground beef, sharp cheddar, and that creamy sour cream makes a delicious mix of textures and flavors that’ll keep everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe, it might become your go-to comfort dinner too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this dish are straightforward and complement each other perfectly. Frozen shredded potatoes make prep a breeze, and the sharp cheddar cheese adds just the right punch of flavor. Plus, a few key seasonings take it from basic to delicious.
- Shredded frozen potatoes: Using frozen means less prep and the perfect texture when slow-cooked.
- Ground beef: I prefer lean to keep things lighter, but some fat adds great flavor too.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds rich flavor and a melty, cheesy goodness; divided use helps layer the cheesy taste.
- Sour cream: Brings creaminess and tang that balances the savory elements.
- Onion: Diced for a little crunch and subtle sweetness.
- Mushroom bouillon base: Intensifies the umami flavor in a natural way—perfect for depth without overpowering.
- Minced garlic: Because garlic just makes everything better, right?
Variations
I love how forgiving this Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe is. It’s a fantastic base to customize based on what you have or your dietary preferences. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Vegetable add-ins: I’ve tossed in bell peppers or mushrooms to sneak in some extra veggies without changing the cozy vibe.
- Spicy kick: Adding a dash of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños really wakes up the dish.
- Dairy-free version: Swap sour cream for coconut yogurt and cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative; still delicious!
- Herb boost: Fresh parsley or chives stirred in right before serving give a fresh, bright contrast.
How to Make Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe
Step 1: Brown your ground beef
Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial—it helps develop flavor and ensures you get rid of excess fat. I usually break the meat into small chunks as it cooks so it mixes evenly later. Once nicely browned, drain the fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Layer ingredients in the slow cooker
Next, spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a thin layer of oil to help with cleanup. Spread half the shredded potatoes as the bottom layer. Then sprinkle the diced onions and garlic over the potatoes. Add the browned beef evenly on top. Mix the mushroom bouillon base with the sour cream, then dollop it all over the beef. Top with half of your shredded cheddar cheese to lock in that cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Cook low and slow
Set your slow cooker on low for about 6 hours. This slow, gentle cooking allows the potatoes to get tender and the flavors to seamlessly meld. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for around 3 hours, but I prefer the deeper flavor low and slow brings.
Step 4: Add the final cheese layer
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese over the top, then cover and let it melt into a bubbly, golden layer. This last cheesy finish always makes my family smile.
How to Serve Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe
Garnishes
I like to keep garnishes simple but fresh. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions adds a pop of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, I top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Side Dishes
Since the hash is pretty hearty, I usually pair it with a light side salad or steamed green beans to balance things out. Occasionally, a side of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls works great to mop up any extra cheesy goodness left in the slow cooker.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress it up for guests or special occasions, try serving the hash in individual ramekins or scooped atop toasted English muffins for a deconstructed open-faced “burger” hash. I’ve also layered it in a casserole dish and broiled the top for a crispy crust finish that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I find the flavors actually develop a bit more after resting overnight. Just make sure to reheat it gently to keep the potatoes from drying out.
Freezing
This Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe freezes nicely, too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. I recommend thawing it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, I usually pop individual portions in the microwave, covered loosely to retain moisture. Alternatively, warming it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth helps refresh the potatoes and keep everything creamy without drying out.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen shredded potatoes for the Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe?
You definitely can use fresh potatoes, but you’ll want to shred and rinse them first to remove excess starch and prevent browning. Also, keep in mind that cooking time might increase slightly to ensure they become tender in the slow cooker.
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Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable bouillon instead of mushroom base to keep it flavorful. The texture will be slightly different but still comforting and satisfying.
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How do I prevent the Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe from getting too watery?
Drain the fat well after browning the beef and avoid adding extra liquid since the frozen potatoes release moisture as they cook. Cooking on low helps regulate moisture better than high heat, reducing the chance of watery hash.
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Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Just make sure you have a large enough slow cooker to accommodate the increased volume. Cooking times might be a bit longer, so check the tenderness of the potatoes before serving.
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What cheese do you recommend for the best flavor?
I stick with sharp cheddar because it melts beautifully and gives a nice tang that cuts through the richness. But feel free to experiment with a smoky gouda or a pepper jack if you’re feeling adventurous!
Final Thoughts
This Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe has truly been a lifesaver in my kitchen—I can toss ingredients in, do my thing, and come back to a meal that feels homemade and hearty. It’s comforting, easy, and perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without fuss. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as my family does. Trust me, this one’s a keeper you’ll want to add to your regular rotation!
PrintLazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe
This Lazy Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash is a comforting and hearty casserole perfect for an easy weeknight meal. Featuring browned ground beef, shredded potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy blend of sour cream and seasonings, it’s a delicious, all-in-one dish that slowly cooks to perfection, making meal prep effortless and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen shredded potatoes
- 1.5 – 2 lbs lean ground beef, browned
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 3 cups sour cream
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 tablespoon mushroom bouillon base
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Add the frozen shredded potatoes into the slow cooker as the base layer.
- Add the Beef and Vegetables: Spread the browned ground beef evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle the diced onion and minced garlic on top.
- Mix Sour Cream and Seasoning: In a bowl, combine the 3 cups of sour cream with 1 tablespoon of mushroom bouillon base, stirring well to incorporate the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Pour the sour cream mixture over the potatoes and beef evenly.
- Add Cheese: Reserve 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for topping later. Mix the remaining 3 cups of cheddar cheese into the slow cooker mixture evenly.
- Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are nicely blended.
- Finish with Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese on top, cover again, and let it melt into a golden, bubbly layer.
- Serve Warm: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, turn off the slow cooker and serve the hash hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh potatoes if preferred, but frozen shredded potatoes save time and maintain texture.
- For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms along with onions.
- If a thicker consistency is desired, reduce sour cream to 2 cups and add a splash of heavy cream or milk.
- Use low-fat sour cream and lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
