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Crockpot hamburger stew simmering with ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheddar in a black slow cooker

This easy hamburger crockpot recipe is a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner that practically cooks itself. Juicy ground beef, crushed tomatoes, spices, and your choice of potatoes or pasta simmer to perfection in the slow cooker for a hearty, comforting meal.
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Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 445
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced (or 8 oz elbow macaroni for pasta version)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1–2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
  • 0.25 cup sour cream (optional finish)
  • olive oil or butter for browning
  • fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • slow cooker (5–6 quart)
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and ground beef. Break up the meat and cook until browned and crisp. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. In the same pan, add diced onion, bell pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Transfer the beef, onions, and peppers to the crockpot. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. If using potatoes, add them now. Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.
  5. If using pasta, wait until 25–30 minutes before serving. Stir in elbow macaroni and ½ cup more broth if needed. Cook on High until pasta is al dente.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. For extra richness, stir in sour cream. Sprinkle cheddar on top and cover for 5 minutes to melt.
  7. Top with chopped parsley or chives and serve warm.

Notes

Optional toppings like cheddar cheese or sour cream elevate this dish to comfort food heaven. Choose potatoes for a classic stew-like version or elbow macaroni for a cheeseburger mac twist. Avoid adding pasta too early—it’s best near the end to stay firm. Freeze leftovers without dairy and reheat with a splash of broth.