Slow Cooker Beef Hash
This slow cooker 3-ingredient beef hash is the ultimate budget-friendly comfort food recipe made with simple pantry staples: ground beef, potatoes, and onions. Inspired by Depression-era cooking, it’s a hearty, filling, and affordable family meal that simmers low and slow into a rich, savory dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
If you love easy crockpot recipes, cheap family dinners, and old-fashioned rustic comfort food, this recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Benefits)
- Ultra budget-friendly – only 3 main ingredients
- Hearty & filling – perfect for feeding a family on a budget
- Easy slow cooker meal – minimal prep, no stress cooking
- Old-fashioned comfort food – like grandma used to make
- Versatile – serve as-is or stretch with rice, toast, or noodles
- Beginner-friendly – simple steps, no special skills needed
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
- 6 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water (optional for extra moisture)
Directions (Slow Cooker Method)
- Prep vegetables: Dice potatoes into small cubes and chop onion finely.
- Brown beef: Cook ground beef in a skillet until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
- Layer in slow cooker: Add potatoes and onions, then top with browned beef. Mix gently.
- Add moisture (optional): Pour in a small amount of broth or water if needed.
- Slow cook:
- LOW: 6–8 hours
- HIGH: 3–4 hours
Cook until potatoes are soft and tender.
- Serve hot: Stir and serve with the savory juices.
Serving Ideas (Make it stretch further)
- Over buttered toast for a classic diner-style meal
- With rice or egg noodles for extra bulk
- With fried or scrambled eggs for a breakfast dinner
- With canned green beans or a simple salad
