Here in the country, a slow cooker full of something filling feels like a kitchen hug that lasts all afternoon. This five-ingredient potato stick casserole is one of those dishes that used to appear at church gatherings and harvest festivals across the Midwest, usually brought by someone’s aunt who “just threw it together.” It’s simple, filling, and uses ingredients many of us have on hand in the freezer and pantry. The potato sticks bake to a golden, crispy crust on a creamy, savory base, and the whole thing tastes like a comfort dish you reach for when the wind howls and the fields are empty. Someone can make this on a busy weekday when there’s more to do than time, or on a Sunday afternoon when you want the house to smell like dinner without having to hover over the stove. It’s a recipe that asks little of you and gives a lot in return.
This casserole is a meal in itself, but it truly stands out when you complement it with a few simple additions. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the rich flavor and adds a touch of brightness. Butter-fried green beans or corn—fresh in summer or frozen in winter—perfectly complement the dish’s Midwestern flavor. If you’re feeding a large group, warm rolls or slice a loaf of crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce. For a homey touch, serve it with applesauce or a simple fruit salad, just like at traditional church suppers, where there was always something savory, something sweet, and plenty of food to fill you up.
Potato casserole with 5 ingredients in a slow cooker
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or ground pork, turkey, or a mix)
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
1 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup milk
1 (32-ounce) package frozen small potatoes
Salt and black pepper to taste (optional, but recommended)
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
1 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup milk
1 (32-ounce) package frozen small potatoes
Salt and black pepper to taste (optional, but recommended)
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