Crock Pot Beefy Ranch Potato Casserole with Cheddar
A hearty slow cooker casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy ranch scalloped potatoes, sweet corn, and melted cheddar cheese. This comfort food classic layers tender potato slices with savory beef and vegetables, all cooked together in rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, this one-pot meal delivers satisfying flavors with minimal hands-on preparation time.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pound ground beef, browned and drained well
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 5 oz Bacon Ranch Scalloped Potatoes, 1 box
- 1 ¾ cup water
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- 1
Brown the ground beef and onion until the beef is cooked through
- 2
Spray a 4-quart crock pot with cooking spray
- 3
Pour the contents of the boxed scalloped potatoes into the bottom of the crock pot
- 4
Sprinkle the seasoning pack and bacon bits over the top of the potato slices
- 5
In a small pot bring the water and butter to a boil
- 6
Immediately remove the pot from the stove and pour in the milk
- 7
Pour the liquids over the potatoes into the crock pot
- 8
Spread the ground beef and onions over the potatoes
- 9
Spread the corn over the beef
- 10
Cover and cook for 2 hours
- 11
Remove the lid and sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top
- 12
Replace the lid and continue heating on low until the cheese has melted
Tips
Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease in the casserole
Use low-sodium corn to control salt levels since the potato mix contains seasoning
Let rest 5 minutes after cooking to allow layers to set before serving
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Can assemble ingredients day before, refrigerate, add 30 minutes cooking time
Serve hot directly from crock pot with side salad or steamed vegetables
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining beef to avoid greasy casserole
Add cheese only in final step to prevent curdling
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of boxed?
Yes, slice 2 pounds potatoes thin and add 1 packet ranch dressing mix with bacon bits for similar flavor.
What if my potatoes aren't tender after 2 hours?
Continue cooking on low for 30-60 minutes more until fork tender before adding cheese.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Best fresh, but can freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in oven at 350°F until heated through.