Dinner

Lumberjack Casserole Recipe

Name: Lumberjack Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-492348H12M2S
Total time: PT-492348H12M2S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. lean ground beef (7% fat); 2 small russet potatoes, cubed; 1 sweet yellow onion, diced; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp salt; ¼ tsp freshly ground pepper; 15 oz can petite diced tomatoes; 15 oz can kidney beans, drained; 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup; 8 oz bag sharp cheddar cheese

ByThomas Greene February 18, 2026February 18, 2026

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Introduction

Lumberjack Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for busy days or chilly evenings. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, and cheese, it combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, filling meal that’s easy to prepare.

A close-up of a white slow cooker filled with a cheesy casserole that has a golden-yellow melted cheese layer on top with small green herb sprinkles. Underneath the cheese, there are visible layers of cooked ground meat, red kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chunky beige potato pieces. A detailed silver spoon is scooping some of the casserole, showing the thick, mixed texture of the meat, beans, potatoes, and cheese inside the cooker. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb. lean ground beef (7% fat recommended)
2 small russet potatoes, cubed
1 sweet yellow onion, diced
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. salt
¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper
15 oz. can petite diced tomatoes
15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
10.5 oz. can cream of mushroom soup
8 oz. bag sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions together until the beef is browned and crumbled. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Add the cubed potatoes, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and cream of mushroom soup into a slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, allowing flavors to meld and potatoes to become tender.
Step 4: When cooking is complete, stir the casserole once more, sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese over the top, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking.
Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery or cream of chicken for a different twist.
Use smoked paprika instead of chili powder for a smoky depth.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added veggies.
If you prefer, cook the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 1 hour covered, stirring halfway through.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems thick. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a layered baked dish. The top layer is golden melted cheese with hints of orange, covering a mix of kidney beans, ground meat, diced potatoes, and small pieces of red tomato. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled on the cheese, adding a fresh contrast. A silver spoon is scooping beneath the cheese, revealing the thick, hearty layers with a mix of creamy and chunky textures. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake it covered in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about an hour, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Fresh tomatoes can be used but will add more liquid. You may want to reduce other liquids slightly or cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes to thicken the casserole.