Slow Cooker Amish Shipwreck Casserole
If you love easy slow cooker comfort food, this Amish Shipwreck Casserole is the kind of cozy family dinner you’ll want on repeat. Made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, sliced potatoes, and tomato soup, this old-fashioned recipe delivers rich flavor with almost no effort.
This slow cooker ground beef casserole is layered the traditional way tender potatoes on top, savory beef underneath, and a creamy tomato gravy that cooks low and slow until everything melts together. It’s the perfect budget-friendly crockpot meal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you crave a warm, hearty dinner that feels like home.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Shipwreck Casserole:
Only a few ingredients simple pantry staples
True dump-and-go slow cooker recipe
Hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners
Great make-ahead comfort food
Budget-friendly and beginner-friendly
This classic slow cooker potato and ground beef recipe tastes like something straight from a farmhouse kitchen rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
6 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed tomato soup
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup water (optional, for thinner sauce)
Nonstick spray or butter for greasing
Directions:
Lightly grease a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking.
Spread the raw ground beef evenly on the bottom and season with salt and pepper.
Add a layer of sliced onions over the beef.
Stir the tomato soup with water until smooth.
Arrange the sliced potatoes in overlapping layers on top.
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the potatoes, spreading gently.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3½–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
Adjust seasoning if needed, then scoop down through the layers to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
This classic crockpot casserole is delicious served straight from the slow cooker with:
A crisp green salad
Buttered green beans or peas
Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the sauce
For a simple dessert, try applesauce or an easy sheet cake to keep the meal comforting and traditional.
Variations & Tips:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Colby Jack during the last 20 minutes for a cheesy finish.
Add frozen mixed vegetables for extra nutrition.
Swap one can of tomato soup with cream of mushroom for a creamier version.
Add Worcestershire sauce or dried herbs for deeper flavor.
Leftovers taste even better the next day and reheat beautifully, making this a great meal prep slow cooker recipe.
Benefits of This Recipe:
This slow cooker ground beef and potato casserole is perfect when you want comfort food without extra work. Cooking low and slow helps the flavors blend naturally while keeping the potatoes tender and the beef juicy. It’s a filling, family-friendly meal that saves time, reduces dishes, and uses affordable ingredients ideal for busy households.
