13 Beef and Potatoes Crock Pot Dinners That Even Picky Eaters Love

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I find myself longing for those comforting dishes that warm both body and soul. That cozy feeling reminds me of family dinners spent gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. This is why I decided to create a collection of delicious beef and potatoes crock pot dinners that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.

If you’re a busy parent juggling the demands of work, school, and after-school activities, this post is for you. You want meals that are not only simple to prepare but also satisfy everyone at the table. With these recipes, you can keep hunger at bay while providing your family with hearty, nutritious meals that will leave them asking for seconds.

In this list, you’ll discover 13 comforting crock pot recipes that showcase the classic combination of beef and potatoes. Each dish is designed to be family-friendly, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory beef and potato stew or a cheesy casserole, these meals can transform your busy weeknights into delightful dining experiences. So, grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become instant favorites in your home!

Key Takeaways

– Explore 13 delicious slow cooker recipes featuring beef and potatoes that appeal to even the pickiest eaters.

– Each recipe is designed for busy families, allowing you to prepare easy dinners with minimal effort.

– Enjoy the comforting flavors of classic dishes like beef and potato stew and cheesy casseroles.

– Discover versatile meals that can be served on various occasions, from casual family dinners to cozy get-togethers.

– These recipes offer practical cooking tips to simplify meal prep and ensure tasty results every time.

1. Classic Beef and Potato Stew

Warm up with a classic beef and potato stew that’s perfect for cold nights. This dish features tender beef chunks swimming in a savory broth, complemented by hearty potatoes and sweet carrots. The combination of herbs adds depth, making every spoonful satisfying and comforting. You’ll love how the slow cooker brings it all together, allowing the flavors to blend over time, creating a rich and delicious meal.

Ingredients:
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
4 medium potatoes, diced
3 carrots, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper in a large bowl.
2. Layer the potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker.
3. Place the seasoned beef on top of the vegetables.
4. Mix beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme in a separate bowl, then pour over the beef and veggies.
5. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef becomes tender.

FAQs:
1. Can I freeze this stew? Yes, it freezes well in airtight containers.

2. Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole

If you love cheese, this cheesy beef and potato casserole is for you! This dish layers seasoned ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes and plenty of cheddar cheese. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, melding all the flavors into comforting goodness. Each bite is a warm embrace, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
4 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or instant)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Layer half of the mashed potatoes in the slow cooker.
3. Top with cooked beef, followed by mushroom soup and half of the cheese.
4. Add the remaining mashed potatoes and cover with the rest of the cheese.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or until heated through and bubbly.

FAQs:
1. Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Mozzarella or gouda work great too.

3. Beef and Potato Curry

Spice up your dinner with a beef and potato curry that’s bursting with flavor. This dish features tender beef simmered in creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices, creating a delightful blend of tastes. It’s a perfect meal that transports you to a world of exotic flavors while still being comforting. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete experience that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients:
1.5 lbs beef stew meat
4 medium potatoes, cubed
1 can coconut milk
2 tbsp curry powder
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, potatoes, onion, garlic, ginger, and curry powder.
2. Add the coconut milk and stir well.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or until beef and potatoes are tender.

FAQs:
1. Is it very spicy? You can adjust the curry powder based on your spice preference.

Did you know beef and potato curry can turn a busy weeknight into a 6 to 8 hour crock pot triumph? When you simmer tender beef with potatoes and creamy coconut milk, even picky eaters ask for seconds.

4. BBQ Beef and Potatoes

Nothing says comfort like BBQ beef and potatoes cooked in a crock pot. This easy recipe combines tender beef, hearty potatoes, and your favorite barbecue sauce. It’s a simple, no-fuss dinner that the whole family will love. Serve it over rice or in a sandwich for a delicious meal that feels like a BBQ party at home.

Ingredients:
2 lbs beef brisket, cut into chunks
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, sliced
1 cup BBQ sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Layer the diced potatoes and onion in the slow cooker.
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper and place it on top of the potatoes.
3. Pour the BBQ sauce over the beef.
4. Cook on low for 6 hours until the beef is tender.

FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken instead? Yes, just adjust the cooking time to about 4 hours.

Weeknights sprint by, but a beef and potatoes crock pot dinner makes it easy to win at family dinnertime. Toss in beef, potatoes, and BBQ sauce, and you’ve got a comforting, no-fuss meal that tastes like a backyard party at home.

5. Italian Beef and Potato Bake

Bring a taste of Italy to your table with this Italian beef and potato bake. The dish layers seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and zesty marinara sauce for a crowd-pleasing meal. The slow cooker ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients:
1.5 lbs ground beef
4 medium potatoes, sliced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef with Italian seasoning in a skillet.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the slow cooker.
3. Add half of the meat mixture and half of the marinara sauce on top.
4. Repeat the layers and finish with marinara sauce.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and cook on low for 8 hours.

FAQs:
1. Can I use different types of sauce? Sure, a creamy Alfredo can add a twist!

6. Beef and Potato Chili

Get ready to warm up with a hearty beef and potato chili. This dish combines tender beef, robust potatoes, beans, and spices, making it perfect for family dinners or game day. The slow cooker lets the flavors deepen and meld together, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out!

Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 can kidney beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp chili powder
1 onion, chopped
1 cup beef broth

Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet.
2. In the slow cooker, add potatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chili powder.
3. Pour in the browned beef and beef broth, stirring well.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours.

FAQs:
1. Can I leave out the beans? Yes, just add more potatoes to keep it hearty.

7. Beef Stroganoff with Potatoes

Enjoy the rich flavors of beef stroganoff with potatoes for a creamy meal that satisfies. This classic recipe features tender beef and potatoes in a luscious mushroom sauce. It’s an easy yet impressive dish for busy weeknights. Serve it over egg noodles or rice for a filling dinner everyone will love.

Ingredients:
1.5 lbs beef chuck, sliced
4 medium potatoes, cubed
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 onion, diced
1 cup sour cream
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, mix beef, potatoes, onion, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup until combined.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours.
4. Stir in sour cream before serving.

FAQs:
1. Can I substitute yogurt for sour cream? Yes, it works just as well!

Fun fact: a hearty beef and potatoes crock pot can turn 1.5 pounds of chuck into a creamy stroganoff with just 4 simple steps. Let the slow cooker do the work, then finish with sour cream for a restaurant-worthy meal in minutes.

8. One-Pot Beef and Potato Tacos

Make taco night a breeze with these one-pot beef and potato tacos. This simple recipe uses the slow cooker to mix all the flavors into a delicious filling for your soft tortillas. Top with your favorite taco fixings for a family favorite that everyone will love. It’s the perfect way to enjoy tacos without the mess!

Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 onion, chopped
1 cup beef broth
Tortillas and toppings (lettuce, cheese, salsa)

Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet.
2. Transfer to the slow cooker and add diced potatoes, taco seasoning, and beef broth.
3. Cook on low for 5 hours until potatoes are tender.
4. Serve in warmed tortillas with desired toppings.

FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef? Definitely, just adjust the cooking time!

9. Spicy Beef and Potato Skillet

Spice up your dinner with a spicy beef and potato skillet. This dish features tender beef, flavorful potatoes, and a mix of spices that will satisfy your cravings for heat. It’s a customizable recipe, allowing you to adjust the spice level to suit your family’s taste. Perfect for those who love a kick in their meals!

Ingredients:
2 lbs ground beef
4 medium potatoes, cubed
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
1 bell pepper, chopped

Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked.
2. Transfer it to the slow cooker and add potatoes, tomatoes, bell pepper, and taco seasoning.
3. Mix well and cook on low for 6 hours.

FAQs:
1. How can I reduce the spice level? Use mild salsa instead of spicy tomatoes.

10. Beef and Potato Goulash

Experience a taste of Hungary with a comforting beef and potato goulash. This dish combines beef, potatoes, and spices, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s easy to prepare and results in a hearty meal that will satisfy even the hungriest appetites. Perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends!

Ingredients:
2 lbs beef stew meat
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 tbsp paprika
4 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker: beef, potatoes, onion, paprika, beef broth, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well and cover.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours until beef is tender.

FAQs:
1. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, carrots and bell peppers work great!

11. Beef and Potato Salad

Surprise your family with a refreshing beef and potato salad that’s perfect for warm days. This unique dish combines tender beef, soft potatoes, and a zesty dressing for a light yet filling meal. It’s ideal for picnics or barbecues, offering a satisfying option that stands out. Enjoy this fresh twist at your next gathering!

Ingredients:
1 lb beef tenderloin, cooked
4 medium potatoes, boiled and cubed
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp mustard
1 cup green beans, blanched
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Add cooked beef, potatoes, and green beans to the dressing and toss gently.
3. Chill in the fridge before serving.

FAQs:
1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days.

12. Sweet and Sour Beef and Potatoes

Indulge in the delightful balance of sweet and sour beef and potatoes for a delicious dinner. This dish features juicy beef and hearty potatoes simmered in a tangy sauce. It’s a meal that pleases every palate and is easy to prepare. Serve with rice for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients:
2 lbs beef sirloin, cut into chunks
4 medium potatoes, cubed
1 cup sweet and sour sauce
1 onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped

Instructions:
1. Place potatoes, onion, and bell pepper in the slow cooker.
2. Add the beef chunks on top, followed by the sweet and sour sauce.
3. Stir gently to combine and cook on low for 6 hours.

FAQs:
1. Can I adjust the sweetness? Yes, add more sweet and sour sauce to taste.

13. Herbed Beef and Potato Soup

Wrap up your meal with a warm bowl of herbed beef and potato soup. This comforting dish combines tender beef, potatoes, and fragrant herbs, perfect for lazy afternoons or chilly evenings. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delightful soup that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.

Ingredients:
1.5 lbs beef stew meat
4 medium potatoes, chopped
3 carrots, diced
1 onion, diced
4 cups beef broth
2 tsp dried herbs (thyme, rosemary)

Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine all ingredients: beef, potatoes, carrots, onion, broth, and herbs.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 7 hours until the vegetables are tender.

FAQs:
1. Can I substitute fresh herbs? Yes, just use three times the amount for a fresher flavor.

Conclusion

These 13 beef and potatoes crock pot dinners are not just meals; they’re experiences that bring families together. Whether you’re craving something classic like a stew or something a bit different like a sweet and sour dish, this list has something for everyone.

With the ease of a slow cooker, even the busiest of nights can turn into cozy family dinners. So grab your crock pot, choose your favorite recipe, and enjoy the delightful flavors of home-cooked comfort food!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Easy Dinner Ideas Using Beef and Potatoes in a Crock Pot?

If you’re looking for easy dinner ideas that feature beef and potatoes, you’re in luck! Using a crock pot allows you to create delicious, hearty meals with minimal effort. Consider recipes like beef stew with tender chunks of potatoes, or a classic shepherd’s pie that cooks slowly to bring out rich flavors. These meals are not only satisfying but also perfect for family-friendly meals that even picky eaters will love!

Can I Customize Beef and Potatoes Crock Pot Recipes for Dietary Restrictions?

Absolutely! One of the best things about crock pot recipes is their versatility. You can easily adjust ingredients to meet dietary restrictions. For instance, if you’re looking to make a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free broth and check your sauces. Additionally, you can swap in sweet potatoes for a healthier option or use lean cuts of beef for a lighter meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make the recipe your own!

How Long Should I Cook Beef and Potatoes in a Crock Pot?

Cooking times can vary depending on the cut of beef and the size of your potato chunks, but generally, you should aim for about 6 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that your beef turns tender. Make sure to check your meal occasionally to avoid overcooking, and enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen!

What Are Some Tips for Making Beef and Potatoes Crock Pot Dinners More Flavorful?

To elevate the flavor of your beef and potatoes crock pot dinners, consider adding aromatics like garlic and onions at the start. Don’t forget herbs and spices—rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves can make a world of difference! For a richer taste, a splash of red wine or beef broth can enhance the dish. Lastly, adding veggies like carrots or peas not only boosts flavor but also adds nutrition to your comfort food meals.

Are Beef and Potatoes Crock Pot Dinners Suitable for Meal Prep?

Yes! Beef and potatoes crock pot dinners are fantastic for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and portion it out for the week. Just store individual servings in airtight containers, and they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for several days or can be frozen for longer storage. This makes them a convenient option for busy families looking for family-friendly meals that can be quickly reheated for a satisfying dinner!