Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash

This Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash Brown Casserole brings together layers of comforting cheesy hash browns and savory ground beef cooked in classic sloppy Joe sauce for an easy all in one meal. It is a wonderful way to enjoy meat and potatoes with minimal effort by letting the slow cooker do the work while you relax.

I first made this when my parents stopped by unannounced and it became an instant hit. My husband has asked for it almost every week since then which says a lot about how tasty and comforting this casserole is.

Ingredients

• Frozen shredded hash brown potatoes: partially thawed for easy mixing, choose fresh frozen packs without ice crystals
• Condensed cheddar cheese soup: adds creamy cheesiness, can swap for other condensed soups for different flavors or lower sodium
• Egg: acts as a binder holding the casserole together so it slices well
• Salt and pepper: basic seasoning, add garlic powder or herbs if you prefer more flavor depth
• Ground beef: lean or regular works, can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
• Onion: for sweetness and aroma, omit if not preferred
• Sloppy Joe sauce: canned for convenience but homemade versions work wonderfully as well
• Shredded cheddar cheese: sharp or mild, shredded so it melts easily on top, try pepper jack for a spicy twist

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics and Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook and crumble until beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole. Stir in sloppy Joe sauce until the mixture is evenly coated and warm.

Prepare the Hash Brown Base:

Spray a 5 to 6 quart oval crock pot with nonstick spray. In a large bowl, mix the partially thawed shredded potatoes with condensed cheddar cheese soup, egg, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of the crock pot to form the base layer.

Layer the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

Spoon the cooked sloppy Joe ground beef mixture evenly over the hash brown base layer in the crock pot. This layering keeps flavors distinct but melded during cooking.

Cook and Melt Cheese:

Cover the crock pot and cook on low for about 4 to 4 and a half hours. Ten minutes before serving, sprinkle about one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Replace the lid and let the cheese melt smoothly over the casserole.

Serve:

Spoon portions out warm and enjoy with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or cornbread.

My favorite ingredient has to be the cheesy condensed soup which brings creaminess and tang that completely transforms simple potatoes. One family memory I cherish is making this for an unexpected visit from my mom and seeing everyone eagerly pile their plates high before asking for seconds.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or conventional oven to retain moisture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cheddar cheese soup is not available, use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for a different spin. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter casserole. Try southern style cubed hash browns or Potatoes O’Brien for added vegetables and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Cornbread or biscuits complement the rich flavors perfectly to round out this cozy meal.

This casserole is an easy, comforting crowd pleaser that reheats well and freezes beautifully. It quickly becomes a go to weeknight meal.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables such as green or red peppers, corn, or onions can enhance flavor and texture nicely.

→ Are shredded hash browns mandatory?

You can substitute with cubed potatoes like southern-style or Potatoes O’Brien for a different texture and added veggies.

→ What sides pair well with this meal?

Side salads, cornbread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish perfectly.

→ Is the shape of the slow cooker important?

Using an oval slow cooker is recommended to ensure even cooking and proper layering of ingredients.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days, reheating in the microwave when needed.