
When my calendar gets packed and the weather turns chilly, this slow cooker hamburger hash is my go-to comfort food. It is a hearty family dinner that cooks itself while you get on with your day and always gets second helpings at the table.
I first made this for a Saturday night movie marathon and now it is always the request when everyone is craving cozy home cooking. It tastes just like the kind of meal my grandma used to serve after a long day outside.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Choose fresh with bright color and little liquid for best flavor and texture
- White onion: Milder than yellow onion and adds gentle sweetness
- Salt and pepper: These seasonings round out all the savory flavors
- Garlic powder: Delivers a hint of earthy depth without the bite of raw garlic
- Cream of mushroom soup: Look for one with lots of visible mushroom bits for added richness and creaminess
- Corn: Go for canned corn that looks plump and vibrant not faded great for popping sweet bursts into every bite
- Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture breaks down just enough for a creamy base pick ones that feel heavy and firm with no green spots or wrinkles
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and a sharp punch use freshly shredded from a block for the best melt
Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
- Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet on medium high heat Stir well and cook until the beef is no longer pink about 6 minutes Drain off all excess fat to keep the hash from turning greasy
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly Dice into small half inch cubes keeping the skins on for extra flavor and nutrients Place all the potatoes right into the bottom of your slow cooker forming an even layer
- Layer and Mix:
- Pour the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes Add the cream of mushroom soup salt pepper garlic powder drained corn and half the shredded cheese Use a large spoon to combine everything well and spread it all out evenly in the crock
- Slow Cook:
- Cover your slow cooker and set it on low Heat for five hours without lifting the lid This time lets the potatoes soften the flavors meld and the mixture thicken to a creamy hash
- Cheese Finish:
- After five hours sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese evenly across the hash Replace the lid and let it sit for about ten minutes so the cheese gets gooey and melted all over

The sharp cheddar cheese is my favorite part It brings the whole dish together and gets all gooey and golden on top Whenever I sprinkle it on I always recall my younger cousin trying to snag the first scoop before anyone else got to break that cheesy crust
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool down before transferring to an airtight container Store in the fridge for up to three days and reheat individual portions in the microwave Just add a splash of milk or water before reheating so everything stays creamy You can also freeze in resealable bags for up to two months for a meal prep win
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version For the cheese go with Monterey Jack or Colby blend if sharp cheddar is not your favorite No fresh potatoes Use diced frozen potatoes or hash browns for a real timesaver and still get great results
Serving Suggestions
Scoop big portions into bowls and serve with a dash of hot sauce or crunchy dill pickles on the side My family likes this with crusty bread for dipping or with scrambled eggs for a weekend brunch It is also tasty topped with fresh chopped parsley or chives for extra color
Cultural and Historical Context
Hamburger hash is classic American comfort food born out of a need to stretch pantry staples and feed a crowd There are so many regional twists but the core remains the same ground meat potatoes and vegetables cooked until bubbly This version with cream soup and cheese captures old school diner magic and the taste of home

Comforting and full of flavor this hamburger hash is always a winner for busy weeknights. With its hearty ingredients and cozy taste your family will request it again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well and can lighten the dish while still blending with other flavors.
- → Should I peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients to the hash.
- → Can a different cheese be used?
Absolutely! Try Colby, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent mushy potatoes?
Dice potatoes into even, small cubes and avoid stirring too much during cooking.
- → Is it possible to add other vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, peas, or carrots can be added for extra color and nutrition.