Slow-Cooker Hamburger Hash Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal simmering away in your slow cooker, ready to greet you after a long day. This Slow-Cooker Hamburger Hash is a delightful fusion of classic flavors with modern convenience. Inspired by an old-time recipe from my friend Maria, I’ve adapted it to be a bit more manageable for smaller gatherings while still delivering that rich, satisfying taste we all love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy people and families alike. It requires minimal prep, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a delicious, filling meal. Plus, there’s something magical about the way slow-cooked flavors meld together, creating a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 12-inch skillet
• Medium mixing bowl
• 5- to 6-quart slow cooker
• 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

1. In a 12-inch skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato puree and mushroom soup. Stir in the onion soup and water until well combined.
3. Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray. Reserve 1 cup of the potatoes and set aside. In the slow cooker, gently mix the cooked beef, remaining potatoes, carrots, salt, and the soup mixture. Top with the reserved 1 cup of potatoes.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 9 hours, until the vegetables are tender. The hash can be kept on the low heat setting for up to 2 additional hours if needed.

Tips for Success

• Be sure to brown the beef thoroughly to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• If you prefer fresh potatoes, onions, and peppers, feel free to use them instead of the frozen variety.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A pinch of black pepper can add an extra layer of flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different vegetables like peas or corn for added texture and taste. If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, consider substituting with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can brown the beef and prepare the soup mixture a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble them in the slow cooker when ready to cook.

Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives that will still provide a hearty meal.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of the French onion soup with beef stock.

Conclusion

There you have it, a delicious, comforting Slow-Cooker Hamburger Hash that’s perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do. Please feel free to share your experiences and any creative variations you come up with. Happy cooking!