Cheesy Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. As a busy parent, I know how crucial it is to have reliable Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners in your arsenal. This savory dish combines tender potatoes, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a blanket of melted cheese—all simmered to perfection while you tackle your day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe nails the balance between simplicity and satisfaction, making it a standout among Easy Weeknight Dinners!
Nutritional Benefits
While this dish is indulgent, it’s also packed with protein and nutrients. Potatoes provide potassium and fiber, beef delivers iron and B vitamins, and cheese adds calcium. For a lighter twist, opt for lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese.
| Nutrition | Per Serving (1¼ cups) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (85% lean) | Protein base | Ground turkey, plant-based crumbles |
| Russet potatoes | Hearty starch | Sweet potatoes, Yukon Gold |
| Cheddar cheese | Creamy finish | Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack |
| Cream of mushroom soup | Sauce base | Cream of chicken, celery, or garlic broth + cornstarch |
| Onion soup mix | Flavor booster | Homemade blend: 2 tsp onion powder + 1 tsp garlic powder |
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Large skillet (for browning beef—optional)
- Potato peeler and chopping knife
- Measuring cups/spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep: Peel and cube potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Brown ground beef in a skillet (optional but recommended for deeper flavor).
- Layer: Place potatoes in the crockpot. Top with browned beef, onion soup mix, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir gently.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3.5–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Cheese it up: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover for 10 minutes to melt.
This Cheesy Beef and Potatoes recipe exemplifies why Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners are lifesavers—just layer, wait, and devour!
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
- Too watery? Add 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Potatoes undercooked? Cut smaller cubes next time or extend cooking time by 30–45 minutes.
- Pro tip: For extra flavor, sauté onions and garlic with the beef before layering.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Make-ahead: Chop potatoes and brown beef 1–2 days ahead. Store separately in the fridge until cooking day.
Conclusion
When it comes to hearty, no-fuss Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners, this Cheesy Beef and Potatoes recipe is a weeknight game-changer. It’s affordable, adaptable, and guaranteed to earn smiles all around the table. Pair it with steamed broccoli or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. If you love this recipe, try our cozy Thai Ginger Chicken Soup for another effortless dinner win!
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup (or homemade roux) and verify your onion soup mix is GF.
How can I add veggies to this dish?
Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I skip browning the beef?
Yes, but browning adds richer flavor. If skipping, drain excess grease after cooking.
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