There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of a warm, hearty meal waiting for you, especially when all the hard work was done hours earlier in a slow cooker. That’s exactly why I love making Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash—it’s a comforting, fuss-free classic that turns humble pantry staples into something truly satisfying. Whether you’re wrangling a busy weekday or just want an effortless dinner that makes everyone at the table happy, this dish never lets me down.

What draws me to this recipe time and again is its rustic charm and incredible flavor payoff for minimal effort. Juicy ground beef, tender chunks of potatoes, sweet carrots, and a savory, seasoned broth come together in the slow cooker to form a cozy, filling meal that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s flexible enough to work with what you’ve got in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash

One-pot wonder: Everything cooks in the slow cooker—no extra pans or mess.
Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have.
Crowd-pleaser: Hearty and satisfying enough for the whole family.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with veggies, seasonings, or even swap proteins.
Meal prep friendly: Makes enough for leftovers that taste even better the next day.

What Kind of Ground Beef Works Best for Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash?

I usually go for 85/15 ground beef—it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and fat. Leaner beef like 90/10 works too if you’re watching fat content, but you might miss out on a bit of richness. If you go with fattier ground beef (like 80/20), make sure to brown and drain it first to avoid too much grease in your hash. Browning also helps develop that deeper flavor we all love.

You can even switch things up with ground turkey or ground chicken if you’re aiming for a lighter version. Just be sure to season generously since they’re milder in flavor than beef.

Options for Substitutions

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this dish is how easy it is to adjust based on what’s in my kitchen. Here are some great swaps to try:

Potatoes: Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes all work. You can even use sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Ground Meat: Swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, sausage, or plant-based ground crumbles.
Vegetables: No carrots? Toss in peas, green beans, corn, or bell peppers.
Broth Base: Replace beef broth with vegetable or chicken broth. Even a spoon of tomato paste or canned diced tomatoes can add depth.
Seasonings: Add smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or even taco seasoning to change the flavor profile.

This hash is incredibly forgiving and made to suit your taste (and fridge inventory).

Ingredients for This Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building that comforting, home-cooked flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what goes in and why it matters:

Ground Beef – The savory, meaty foundation of the dish. Browning it before slow cooking adds a layer of rich flavor.
Potatoes – Hearty and starchy, they soak up all the seasonings and make the meal satisfyingly filling.
Carrots – Add natural sweetness and a pop of color. They balance the savory elements beautifully.
Onion – Essential for building flavor; it mellows and sweetens as it cooks.
Garlic – Brings a fragrant punch that elevates the dish from basic to crave-worthy.
Beef Broth – The flavorful liquid that ties everything together and keeps the hash juicy.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth and a little tang to wake up the flavors.
Salt and Pepper – The basics that bring out the best in every other ingredient.
Paprika – A touch of warmth and color that rounds out the seasoning.
Fresh Parsley (optional for garnish) – Brightens the final dish with a fresh, herby finish.

These simple ingredients transform into a complete meal with the help of time and heat. It’s comfort food done right.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial—it not only adds depth of flavor but also lets you drain off excess fat. Once it’s fully cooked and crumbly, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the beef is browning, peel and chop the potatoes and carrots into bite-sized chunks. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Keep the pieces relatively uniform so everything cooks evenly.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and onions to the slow cooker. Sprinkle the garlic over the top. Then, spoon the browned beef evenly over the veggies. This layering helps ensure all components soak up the broth and seasonings properly.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour the beef broth into the cooker. Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors, but don’t overmix—you want to keep the potatoes intact.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have fully melded together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, give the hash a gentle stir. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm in a big bowl—comfort food at its finest.

How Long to Cook the Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Depending on your schedule, you can cook it low and slow or speed things up a bit:

On LOW: 6 to 7 hours – Perfect if you’re setting it up before work. The flavors deepen beautifully, and the veggies get melt-in-your-mouth tender.
On HIGH: 3 to 4 hours – Great for weekend prep or a late start to dinner. Still delivers rich, hearty results.

Whichever you choose, just make sure to check that the potatoes are fork-tender before serving.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash

Brown the beef first. It makes a huge difference in flavor and keeps the final dish from getting greasy.
Cut your potatoes evenly. Uniform chunks ensure they all cook at the same rate—no mushy bits or crunchy surprises.
Don’t skip the seasoning. Worcestershire, garlic, and paprika really enhance the beef and bring everything together.
Layer wisely. Placing the veggies under the meat helps them soak up more flavor and cook through properly.
Stir gently at the end. You want everything combined but still intact, especially those tender potato chunks.
Use fresh parsley. That little burst of green and fresh flavor makes the final dish feel balanced and fresh.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple slow cooker meal like this one can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here’s what to watch for:

Skipping the browning step: It’s tempting to toss raw beef straight into the slow cooker, but you’ll miss out on that deep, caramelized flavor—and you’ll likely end up with greasy broth.
Overcrowding the cooker: Stick to the recipe’s quantities. Overfilling can cause uneven cooking and soggy texture.
Undercooked potatoes: Chop them small and evenly, especially if you’re using a firmer variety like Russet.
Lack of seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust at the end—slow cookers can mute flavors over time.
Opening the lid too often: Every time you peek, heat escapes and you risk extending the cook time.
Not draining the beef: If your meat is too fatty and you skip draining, you’ll end up with an oily dish.
Using the wrong potatoes: Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold hold their shape best. Russets break down more, so if you use them, cut larger chunks.
Letting it sit too long after cooking: Over time, the potatoes may become mushy. Serve once everything is perfectly tender.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash?

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with something light or refreshing makes for a complete and balanced meal. Here are eight delicious ideas:

Crisp Green Salad

A simple salad with lettuce, cucumber, and vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness to contrast the rich hash.

Warm Crusty Bread

Perfect for sopping up that savory broth—think baguette, sourdough, or even homemade biscuits.

Buttered Corn on the Cob

Sweet, juicy corn is a natural sidekick and adds a little extra sunshine to the plate.

Garlic Green Beans

A quick sauté with olive oil and garlic gives you a bright, flavorful veggie side in minutes.

Steamed Broccoli

Mild and slightly bitter, broccoli cuts through the richness and adds nutrition too.

Sliced Tomatoes with Salt and Pepper

Sometimes the simplest things work best—juicy tomatoes add color and a juicy bite.

Applesauce

A traditional comfort food pairing, especially if you’re leaning into the rustic, homey vibe.

Cheddar Biscuits

If you want to double down on cozy, a warm, cheesy biscuit makes a dreamy side dish.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash are a gift—this dish tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerator: Let the hash cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly after thawing.
To Reheat:
- Microwave: Heat single servings in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through for even warmth.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat in a saucepan with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
- Oven: For large batches, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot.

Make sure the dish is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 6 servings total). Keep in mind that values may vary depending on ingredient brands and specific quantities used:

Calories: 360
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 780mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g

This dish delivers a balanced blend of protein, carbs, and healthy veggies, making it a great option for a wholesome dinner or meal prep lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best potato to use for hamburger hash?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal—they hold their shape well during long cook times. If you prefer a softer texture, Russet potatoes work too, but they’ll break down more.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat or use lentils for a fiber-packed option. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Do I have to brown the meat first?

Technically, no—but I highly recommend it. Browning adds depth of flavor and helps you drain excess fat, making for a tastier, less greasy result.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack over the top just before serving adds richness and a creamy finish. Totally optional, but very delicious.

Will frozen vegetables work?

You can use frozen vegetables like corn or green beans. Add them in the last hour of cooking so they don’t overcook and turn mushy.

How do I thicken the broth if it’s too watery?

Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes. Let it cook uncovered to thicken up.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure your slow cooker is big enough (6–7 quarts recommended). Cooking time may increase slightly—check for doneness before serving.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so! It’s mild, familiar, and easy to eat. You can even sneak in extra veggies like peas or zucchini without much fuss from picky eaters.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Hamburger Hash is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and effortlessly cozy—perfect for those nights when you crave something simple and satisfying without hovering over the stove. With its rich, beefy flavor, tender veggies, and cozy one-pot magic, it’s no surprise this recipe earns a regular spot in my meal rotation.

Whether you’re feeding a family, stocking up on leftovers for the week, or just want a warm, comforting bowl of goodness, this dish delivers—every time.