Are you craving a hearty, delicious meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Hamburger and Potato Slow Cooker recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend afternoons. It's a classic comfort food elevated with the convenience of your slow cooker, resulting in fall-apart tender potatoes and juicy, flavorful hamburger. This recipe is packed with flavor, requires minimal prep, and is a fantastic example of healthy meals made simple. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your slow cooker meal.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned beef and sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This easy recipe pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd your slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, use a larger slow cooker.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your potato cubes. Check for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should be easily pierced.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrients. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences.
Variations:
- Spicy Hamburger and Potato: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Hamburger and Potato: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Creamy Hamburger and Potato: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It’s always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your exact ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This simple Hamburger and Potato Slow Cooker recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both easy and healthy. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and make it your go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings! It's a testament to how flavorful and satisfying homemade cooking can be, even with minimal effort.