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Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting allinone meal that combines layers of cheesy hash browns, seasoned ground beef, and tangy sloppy joe sauce straight from your slow cooker. It transforms traditional sloppy joes and hash browns into a hearty casserole that’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy family dinners.
My family fell in love with this recipe the first time I made it when my parents visited. Since then, my husband has asked for it almost every week. It’s a great dish for busy days when you want comfort food without standing by the stove for too long.
Ingredients
- Frozen shredded hash brown potatoes: slightly thawed works best so they spread evenly in the slow cooker
- Condensed cheddar cheese soup: brings creamy richness choose a lowsodium version if you prefer less salt
- Egg: acts as a binder to keep everything together nicely
- Salt and pepper: basic seasoning garlic powder is a great optional addition
- Ground beef: provides hearty protein but feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken
- Onion: adds sweetness and depth omit if you’re not a fan
- Sloppy Joe sauce: storebought or homemade for that tangy, savory flavor that makes this dish stand out
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully on top pepper jack cheese adds a nice little kick if you want some spice
Instructions
- Sauté the Ground Beef and Onion:
- In a large skillet set to medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness. Stir in the sloppy Joe sauce until everything is evenly coated.
- Prepare the Hash Brown Mixture:
- Spray a 56 quart oval slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, mix the slightly thawed shredded hash browns with the condensed cheddar cheese soup, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spoon the sloppy Joe mixture evenly on top of the hash brown layer in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on the low setting for 4 to 4 and a half hours so the flavors meld and the potatoes cook through.
- Add Cheese and Finish:
- About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle roughly a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Replace the lid and let the cheese melt completely before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cheese has melted, scoop out portions and serve. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or some warm cornbread for a full hearty meal.
My favorite part of this dish is definitely the sloppy Joe sauce melding perfectly with creamy, cheesy hash browns. It reminds me of a chilly afternoon when my family gathered around the table sharing stories between bites, enjoying the warmth and comfort this casserole brings.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm in the oven until heated through.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or ground chicken works just as well. You can swap the cheddar cheese soup for mushroom or cream of chicken soup depending on your preference. Southern style hash brown cubes or potatoes OBrien can be used instead of shredded potatoes for different texture.
Serving Suggestions
A side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely to balance the richness of the casserole. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also complement well. Cornbread or biscuits add a touch of Southern comfort to complete the meal.
This Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash Brown Casserole is a simple, comforting meal that feeds a crowd and stores well for leftovers. Enjoy the melty cheese and tangy sloppy Joe flavor in every bite.
FAQs About This Recipe
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to add veggies like green peppers, red peppers, or corn to enhance flavor and texture.
- → Is shredded hash browns necessary?
You can substitute with southern-style cubed potatoes or Potatoes O’Brien for a different texture.
- → What should I serve alongside this casserole?
Consider a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or warm cornbread for a balanced meal.
- → Do I need a specific type of slow cooker?
An oval slow cooker is recommended for even cooking and proper layering.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat in the microwave.