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Lumberjack Casserole Recipe

4.4 from 133 reviews

Lumberjack Casserole is a hearty, comforting slow cooker dish packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and warm spices, all topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious and filling with minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb. lean ground beef (7% fat)
  • 2 small russet potatoes, cubed
  • 1 sweet yellow onion, diced

Spices

  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper

Canned and Dairy

  • 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

  1. Brown the Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop, cook the ground beef and diced onions together. Brown the beef until fully cooked and crumble it as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
  2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef and onions into your slow cooker. Add the cubed russet potatoes, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, freshly ground pepper, petite diced tomatoes, kidney beans (drained), and cream of mushroom soup. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the casserole on low heat for 5-6 hours. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully together.
  4. Add Cheese and Serve: Once cooking is complete, give the casserole a good stir. Sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly before serving warm. This adds a rich, creamy finish to the dish.

Notes

  • For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • If you prefer a spicier casserole, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade béchamel for a fresher taste.
  • To make ahead, prepare all ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate; cook on low the next day.
  • This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

Keywords: Lumberjack Casserole, slow cooker casserole, ground beef casserole, comfort food, easy dinner recipe