Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash

This Crock Pot Sloppy Joe Hash Brown Casserole is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a comforting all-in-one meal. Combining cheesy hash browns with savory ground beef and classic sloppy Joe sauce, it lets the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you relax. This recipe has become a favorite for weeknight dinners when I want something satisfying yet simple to prepare.

I first made this recipe when my parents stopped by unexpectedly, and it immediately became a hit. Now my husband asks me to make it almost every week, especially when he wants that cozy comfort food feeling without fuss.

Ingredients

• Frozen shredded hash brown potatoes: These only need to be slightly thawed; partially frozen is fine to maintain texture
• Condensed cheddar cheese soup: Adds creamy cheesy flavor but feel free to swap with another canned soup for less sodium or a different taste
• Egg: Works as a binder to hold everything beautifully together so it slices well
• Salt and pepper: Essential basics to season the potato mixture; garlic powder can be added for extra aroma
• Ground beef: Provides rich meaty flavor but ground turkey or chicken can work for a lighter option
• Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth; omit if onions are not your thing
• Sloppy Joe sauce: Classic tangy sauce brings the signature sloppy Joe flavor — use homemade if preferred for freshness
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top creating a bubbly cheesy crust; you can try pepper jack for a spicy kick

Instructions

Spray the crock pot:

Spray a 5 to 6 quart oval slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking later and make cleanup easier

Mix the potato base:

In a large bowl, combine the shredded hash browns with the cheddar cheese soup, egg, salt and pepper. Stir everything together well so the potatoes are coated and the egg is evenly mixed. Then spread this mixture in an even layer on the bottom of the crock pot

Brown the beef and onions:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is no longer pink. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole. Then stir in the sloppy Joe sauce until the mixture is thoroughly combined

Layer the sloppy Joe mixture:

Spoon the saucy beef and onion mixture evenly on top of the hash brown base in the slow cooker, spreading it out gently to cover all the potatoes

Slow cook the casserole:

Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for about 4 to 4 and a half hours. The slow, gentle cooking melds flavors and softens the potatoes without making them mushy

Add cheese topping:

About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt into a golden, gooey topping

Serve and enjoy:

Once the cheese is melted, serve the casserole warm straight from the crock pot

My favorite part of this recipe is the cheesy potato layer because it adds creaminess and texture that contrasts beautifully with the bold savory sloppy Joe topping. It always reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathers around the crock pot and digs in happily, soaking up all the nostalgic home-cooked goodness.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat portions in the microwave for quick meals later in the week. This casserole does not freeze too well once cheesy, but you could freeze the cooked sloppy Joe mixture and prepared potato base separately for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken are excellent lean protein swaps for the beef without compromising on flavor. Using southern style cubed hash browns or Potatoes O’Brien which include peppers and onions can add complexity if you want more texture. If you prefer to make your own sloppy Joe sauce, combine tomato sauce with vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of brown sugar for that familiar tangy-sweet taste.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs nicely with something green and fresh like a crisp side salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Cornbread or dinner rolls are also fantastic options to soak up every last bit. For a light twist, serve with pickles or coleslaw to add a crunchy contrast.

Serve warm and enjoy with simple sides for a complete family meal. This casserole is especially handy for busy weeknights when you want hearty comfort with minimal fuss.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like green peppers, red peppers, or corn enhances both flavor and texture. Feel free to customize it with your favorites.

→ Is shredded hash browns the only option?

Shredded hash browns work best, but you can also use southern-style cubed potatoes or Potatoes O’Brien with peppers and onions for variation.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve alongside a fresh side salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

→ Do I need a specific slow cooker shape?

An oval slow cooker is recommended for even cooking and proper layering. Round slow cookers may change cooking time and texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave.