Dinner

Lumberjack Casserole Recipe

ByElena Hart March 22, 2026March 22, 2026

Introduction

Lumberjack Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, and cheese, it’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

A close-up view of a white slow cooker filled with a thick stew topped with a bright yellow melted cheese layer, mixed with visible chunks of light brown potatoes, dark red kidney beans, browned ground meat, and small bits of red tomato. The edges of the cheese have browned slightly, giving a golden crust. A silver spoon with an ornate handle is scooping a portion of the stew from the cooker. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top for color, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb. lean ground beef (7% fat recommended)
2 small russet potatoes, cubed

1 sweet yellow onion, diced
1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. salt
¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper
15 oz. can petite diced tomatoes

15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
10.5 oz. can cream of mushroom soup
8 oz. bag sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and crumbled. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Add the cooked beef and onions along with the potatoes, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and cream of mushroom soup to your slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: When the cooking time is complete, stir the casserole well, then sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Serve immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey.

Tips & Variations

For a thicker casserole, drain some of the tomato juice before adding to the slow cooker.
Add a diced bell pepper for extra color and flavor.

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
Top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley before serving for a fresh garnish.
If your slow cooker runs hot, check doneness earlier to avoid overcooked potatoes.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm gently on the stovetop until hot. Avoid freezing, as the potatoes may become mushy after thawing.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a thick, baked casserole showing a top golden-yellow melted cheese layer with small green herb sprinkles. Under the cheese, layers include chunks of light tan potatoes, dark red beans, small pieces of browned ground meat, and diced red tomatoes, all mixed into a creamy sauce. A silver spoon is scooping out a portion, revealing the mix of ingredients just beneath the cheese layer. The dish rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake it covered at 350°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the potatoes are tender. Stir halfway through and add the cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.