Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash

This Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash Brown Casserole makes a complete and satisfying meal all in one dish. Combining layers of cheesy hash browns with seasoned ground beef and classic sloppy Joe sauce, it’s perfect when you want that comfort food feeling without a lot of fuss. Preparing it in the slow cooker means you can put it together in minutes and let it cook while you take care of other things.

I first made this for a casual visit from family and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared. My husband asked for it almost every week after that, making it a new favorite in our regular rotation.

Ingredients

• Frozen shredded hash browns: Slightly thawed but still cold these provide the hearty potato base and convenience from the freezer
• Condensed cheddar cheese soup: Adds rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor low sodium versions work well if you want to control salt
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the casserole together and create the perfect texture
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances all the flavors garlic powder is a nice optional addition to consider
• Ground beef: Provides the savory protein and heartiness substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked omit if you don’t enjoy onion flavor
• Sloppy Joe sauce: Brings tangy tomato and spice characteristic of sloppy Joes you can use a canned version or homemade if you want to customize the taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for gooey, flavorful finish pepper jack cheese offers a nice spicy kick if you like

Instructions

Spray the crock pot:

Lightly coat a 5 to 6 quart oval crock pot with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Mix the hash brown base:

In a large bowl combine the shredded hash browns with the condensed cheddar cheese soup, egg, salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly so everything is evenly coated. Then spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of the crock pot.

Brown the beef and onion:

Over medium heat in a skillet cook the ground beef with chopped onion until beef is no longer pink and onions are softened. Drain off any excess grease carefully.

Add the sloppy Joe sauce:

Stir the sloppy Joe sauce into the cooked beef and onion mixture until evenly combined and heated through.

Layer and cook:

Spoon the sloppy Joe meat mixture over the hash brown layer in the crock pot, spreading it evenly. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for about four to four and a half hours until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld together.

Add cheese before serving:

About ten minutes before the cooking time is finished sprinkle roughly a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover again to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly and gooey.

Serve warm:

Scoop portions out once the cheese is melted and enjoy this comforting meal that’s ready to eat right from the slow cooker.

My favorite ingredient here is the sloppy Joe sauce because it brings that tangy, slightly sweet flavor that really elevates the whole dish. This recipe reminds me of casual family dinners when everyone gathers, and the slow cooker’s inviting aroma fills the kitchen. It’s such a simple meal but always feels like a special treat.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can be portioned before freezing. Wrap individual servings tightly or place in a freezersafe container for meals on the go. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to retain texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use diced or southern style cubed hash browns instead of shredded if you prefer a chunkier texture. Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a leaner protein option. Try different flavors of condensed soups such as mushroom or cream of chicken for a twist on the base flavor. Feel free to make your own sloppy Joe sauce with tomato paste, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings to control sweetness and spice levels.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad to add brightness and balance the rich flavors. Steamed green beans or mixed vegetables in a microwave steamer bag complement the meal nicely and add color to the plate. A piece of warm cornbread rounds out the comfort food vibe beautifully.

This casserole is an easy comforting meal the whole family will enjoy. Make a double batch and freeze portions for quick weeknight dinners.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can vegetables be added to this dish?

Yes, adding green peppers, red peppers, corn, or other veggies can enhance flavor and texture without altering the dish’s essence.

→ Are shredded hash browns necessary?

Shredded hash browns are ideal, but cubed potatoes or variations like Potatoes O’Brien with peppers and onions can be used as substitutes.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

A simple side salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables complement this rich, slow cooker dish nicely.

→ Is an oval slow cooker preferred?

Yes, an oval slow cooker promotes even cooking and proper layering. Round cookers may increase cooking time and affect texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat gently in the microwave before serving.