10 Comforting Ground Beef Dump Crockpot Recipes Worth Making

As a lover of all things cozy and convenient, I’m excited to share these 10 comforting ground beef dump crockpot recipes with you. Picture coming home to the inviting aroma of a hearty stew or a cheesy taco casserole. No need for constant supervision, just pure comfort waiting for you. These recipes bring you not only ease but also rich flavors and tender textures. Ready to shake up your dinner routine?

Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew

Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. This recipe takes advantage of the slow-cooking capabilities of a crockpot to develop deep flavors and tender textures. As the ground beef slowly simmers with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, it absorbs the savory broth, resulting in a stew that’s both filling and nutritious. Ideal for busy families, this dish can be prepared in the morning and left to cook throughout the day, guaranteeing a warm and delicious meal is ready by dinnertime.

This stew is versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences. You can incorporate your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. The combination of ground beef with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas creates a balanced meal that’s rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The addition of herbs and spices enhances the flavor, making each bite a delight.

Whether served on its own or with a side of crusty bread, Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew is a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add this to the crockpot along with the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and frozen peas.
3. Add the Liquids and Seasonings: Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, and tomato paste into the crockpot. Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Cook the Stew: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Final Adjustments: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Serve the stew in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef in batches to guarantee even caramelization. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes once the stew is cooked, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add a splash of red wine for an extra depth of flavor.

Easy Cheesy Taco Casserole

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that works wonders in a crockpot, and this Easy Cheesy Taco Casserole is no exception. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of seasoned beef with the creamy goodness of melted cheese, all wrapped up in layers of tortillas. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Plus, the crockpot does all the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it simmers to perfection. This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small family or a group of friends. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry, which makes preparation a breeze.

As the casserole cooks slowly in the crockpot, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this taco casserole is sure to become a favorite in your collection of ground beef recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 small flour tortillas, cut into strips
• 1/2 cup salsa
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef:

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another minute until well combined.

2. Assemble the Casserole:

In the bottom of the crockpot, layer half of the tortilla strips. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the tortillas. Add half of the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and salsa. Sprinkle with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

3. Repeat Layers:

Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, beef mixture, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, salsa, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

4. Cook in Crockpot:

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooked, serve the casserole hot. Garnish with optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor.

Extra Tips:

For a spicier version, you can use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. If you prefer a thicker casserole, add a layer of refried beans between the tortilla strips.

For a gluten-free option, substitute corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving, as the flavors may intensify during cooking. This dish can also be prepared in advance and frozen for convenience.

Hearty Ground Beef Chili

There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a bowl of homemade chili, especially when it’s been simmering all day in a crockpot. This Hearty Ground Beef Chili is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, this dish will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity; once everything is in the crockpot, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over several hours. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this chili is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you prefer your chili mild or with a kick, the heat can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder or adding some fresh jalapeños. Serve it up with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice, and you have a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the ground beef until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and transfer beef to the crockpot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Transfer them to the crockpot.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth and give it one final stir to confirm all ingredients are well mixed.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili is ready when the flavors have melded together and it has reached your desired thickness.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables the night before. This can save time in the morning if you’re setting up the crockpot before heading to work.

If you like your chili thicker, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to let some of the liquid evaporate. To make it a bit healthier, consider using lean ground beef or substituting ground turkey.

Finally, don’t forget to garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Creamy Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff

Creamy Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff is a delightful comfort dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends. This recipe brings together the savory flavors of ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce, all of which meld beautifully in the slow cooker.

The crockpot method guarantees that the flavors are well-incorporated, and the beef turns tender and succulent. This dish is best served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Using a crockpot to make this stroganoff not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows you to set it up in the morning and come home to a deliciously aromatic kitchen. It’s a fuss-free meal that requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavor.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or small gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re soft and lightly browned. Transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the crockpot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Cook in Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
5. Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot along with the sour cream. Mix well and cover to cook for the remaining time, allowing the sauce to thicken.
6. Prepare for Serving: Once the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the Creamy Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff over your choice of egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of different mushroom varieties, such as cremini or shiitake, alongside the standard white button mushrooms.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of cornstarch slurry added. Additionally, for those looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream.

When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth to regain the creamy consistency.

Italian Meatball Soup in the Crockpot

Italian Meatball Soup in the Crockpot is a comforting and hearty meal that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of slow cooking. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want to enjoy a warm, flavorful soup without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The meatballs are infused with classic Italian herbs and spices, while the broth is enriched with tomatoes, vegetables, and pasta, creating a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over several hours.

As the meatballs simmer away in the crockpot, they become tender and absorb the delicious flavors of the broth. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends. With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll find this Italian Meatball Soup both simple to make and incredibly rewarding.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Sear the Meatballs: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until they’re browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. This step helps to lock in the flavors and maintain the meatballs’ shape in the soup. Transfer the browned meatballs to the crockpot.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This will enhance the soup’s flavor profile. Transfer the onion and garlic to the crockpot.
4. Assemble the Soup: Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, and celery to the crockpot. Stir everything gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Add Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, add the small pasta to the crockpot. Stir well and continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
6. Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of the meatballs, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. If you’re short on time, store-bought frozen meatballs can be used as a substitute, although homemade ones provide the best flavor.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. Feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months for a quick and easy meal later on.

Simple Savory Sloppy Joes

Simple Savory Sloppy Joes are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that can be prepared conveniently in a crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this classic American dish combines the robust flavors of ground beef with rich tomato sauce and a medley of spices.

The slow cooking process melds these ingredients together, creating a mouthwatering filling that you can serve on a toasted bun for a comforting and satisfying meal.

This versatile recipe is great for serving a crowd or for preparing ahead of time and reheating throughout the week. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, ensuring that the beef is tender and the flavors are well-blended.

Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, these Simple Savory Sloppy Joes are sure to be a hit. Serve them with a side of crispy coleslaw or pickles for a delightful contrast of textures.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 hamburger buns

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and green bell pepper, and mincing the garlic. This will save time and keep the preparation process smooth once you begin cooking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain the excess fat from the skillet.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Once the beef is browned, transfer it to a crockpot. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld together and the beef mixture to become tender and flavorful.
5. Toast the Buns: About 10 minutes before serving, preheat a grill or oven and lightly toast the hamburger buns until they’re just golden brown.
6. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the savory beef mixture onto the toasted buns. Serve warm, and enjoy your Simple Savory Sloppy Joes with your choice of sides.

Extra Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your Sloppy Joes a spicy kick. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the amount of brown sugar slightly.

Always taste the mixture before serving, and adjust the seasoning as needed. For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

Additionally, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance, refrigerate it, and then reheat it in the crockpot before serving.

Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe utilizes the convenience of a crockpot to slowly cook bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tender, savory meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

The dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to have a warm meal ready without much fuss.

When selecting bell peppers, choose ones that are firm and have a flat bottom so they can stand upright in the crockpot. This recipe works well with a variety of bell pepper colors, so feel free to mix and match for a colorful presentation.

The ground beef and rice stuffing is seasoned with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, and is cooked to perfection within the peppers. The end result is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also nutritionally balanced.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 6 medium bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup beef broth

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peppers: Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix the Stuffing: To the bowl with the cooked ground beef, add the cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, drained tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the ground beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it tightly.
5. Prepare the Crockpot: Pour the beef broth into the bottom of the crockpot. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in the crockpot, ensuring they’re snugly fitted but not overcrowded.
6. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
7. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before the end of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
8. Serve: Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the crockpot and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

When making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers, consider using a mix of different colored bell peppers to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

If you prefer a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stuffing mixture.

To test if the peppers are cooked, insert a fork into the side of a pepper; it should slide in easily without resistance.

If you find your stuffing mixture too dry, add a little more beef broth until you achieve the desired consistency.

Enjoy your meal with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete dinner experience.

Tex-Mex Beef and Bean Soup

Tex-Mex Beef and Bean Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the convenience of slow cooking. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to enjoy a warm and fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Using a crockpot allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a delicious and satisfying soup that’s sure to please the whole family. This dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also full of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option for lunch or dinner.

This Tex-Mex Beef and Bean Soup is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the level of spiciness by choosing milder or hotter chili powders, or even add in some fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.

The combination of ground beef, beans, and vegetables creates a balanced meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or tortilla chips for a complete Tex-Mex experience. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the Crockpot: Transfer the browned ground beef into your crockpot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic for added flavor and aroma.
3. Add Beans and Vegetables: Pour in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir the ingredients together to guarantee even distribution.
4. Season the Soup: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, and paprika. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
5. Add Broth: Pour the beef broth into the crockpot, making sure all ingredients are submerged. Stir gently to combine.
6. Cook the Soup: Set your crockpot to low heat and let the soup cook for 6-8 hours. Alternatively, you can set it to high heat and cook for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.
7. Season to Taste: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the crockpot.

This dish also freezes well, so you might want to make a double batch and store some for later. Finally, don’t forget to top your soup with your favorite Tex-Mex garnishes for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.

Crockpot Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Crockpot Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for those days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This slow-cooked version of the classic Shepherd’s Pie allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory dish that will satisfy the whole family. The combination of tender ground beef, mixed vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a meal that’s both filling and flavorful.

Using a crockpot makes this recipe incredibly convenient, allowing you to set it and forget it while you go about your day. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or small gatherings. The preparation is straightforward, and the ingredients are easily accessible, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.

Once everything is assembled in the crockpot, you can let it cook slowly, developing deep flavors and tender textures that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Crockpot Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a dish that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
• 3 cups mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
2. Assemble the Base: Transfer the cooked ground beef mixture to the crockpot. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to guarantee the beef is well-coated with the sauce.
3. Add the Vegetables: Pour the mixed frozen vegetables over the beef mixture in the crockpot. Don’t stir; simply spread them out evenly over the beef layer.
4. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Gently spoon the mashed potatoes over the vegetable layer, smoothing them out to cover the entire surface. Confirm the potatoes are evenly distributed as this forms the topping.
5. Cook in the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to combine and the vegetables to become tender.
6. Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Use a large spoon to serve portions onto plates.

Extra Tips: For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the beef mixture before transferring it to the crockpot. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the beef mixture before adding the vegetables.

Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or add herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they reheat well in the microwave or oven.

Easy Beef Lasagna Casserole

Easy Beef Lasagna Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings all the rich flavors of traditional lasagna into an easy-to-make crockpot version. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender ground beef is cooked to perfection and layered with creamy ricotta cheese, savory marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles.

As everything simmers together in the crockpot, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a delightful and satisfying family meal.

This Easy Beef Lasagna Casserole is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. The crockpot method not only simplifies the cooking process but also guarantees that the lasagna is cooked evenly and stays moist. The result is a casserole that’s cheesy, flavorful, and comforting.

It’s a great way to enjoy the classic taste of lasagna without the fuss of traditional preparation methods. Gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and let it do the work for you while you go about your day.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well blended.
3. Layer the Ingredients: In the crockpot, spread a layer of the meat sauce to cover the bottom. Top with a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them as necessary to fit. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Cook in the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Once cooked, let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Extra Tips: For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage. You can also add a layer of sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for extra nutrition and texture.

Make sure to use uncooked noodles, as they’ll absorb the sauce and cook to the perfect consistency in the crockpot. If you prefer a more browned top, you can transfer the crockpot insert to the oven and broil for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time. Enjoy your Easy Beef Lasagna Casserole with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.