This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is packed with flavors and easy to make! It combines ground beef, beans, corn, and cheesy goodness, all simmered together for a warm meal.
It’s a one-pot wonder that makes clean-up a breeze! I love throwing everything into the slow cooker and forgetting about it until dinner. Plus, it’s perfect for cozy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds protein and richness to the casserole. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. Plant-based ground meat is another great substitute.
Onion: Yellow or white onions work best for this recipe. If you prefer a milder taste, try using green onions or even shallots to give it a different flair.
Kidney Beans: These beans add texture and nutrition. You can replace them with black beans or pinto beans if you want a different flavor or need a change in color.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds a nice kick! If you want to reduce spice, opt for plain diced tomatoes and add fresh diced bell peppers for flavor without heat.
Potatoes: I love using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture, but feel free to swap in sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor, or even frozen hash browns for quicker prep!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings a classic taste to the casserole. If you’re feeling adventurous, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for some extra flavor.
How Do You Ensure Even Cooking of the Potatoes in a Slow Cooker?
Getting the potatoes cooked perfectly can be a challenge. Here’s how to make sure they cook evenly in the slow cooker:
- Dice the potatoes into uniform pieces to promote even cooking.
- Layer the diced potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps them cook through before the other ingredients.
- Make sure to stir the casserole after a few hours to mix the ingredients and ensure the potatoes are coated well with the flavors.
Also, if you’re short on time, pre-cook the potatoes in boiling water for five minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a great head start for tender potatoes!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cowboy casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and needs to cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Plan ahead so you can enjoy a hearty meal at the end of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and let it sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and ground beef. Cook everything together until the beef is nicely browned, stirring occasionally. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, don’t forget to drain it out!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Next, take your slow cooker and add the cooked beef mixture to it. Add in the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the diced potatoes. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together!
3. Season the Casserole:
Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir again until all the seasonings are well mixed into your casserole. This is what gives it that delicious cowboy flavor!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
5. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt into gooey perfection.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your cowboy casserole is done cooking, serve it hot! If you’d like, you can garnish each serving with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this casserole. Just make sure to season it well since turkey is milder in flavor. You may also want to cook it until it’s nicely browned to enhance its taste before adding it to the slow cooker.
What Potatoes Should I Use for This Recipe?
You can use any type of potatoes you prefer, but Russet potatoes will give you a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds will offer a creamier result. Just make sure to peel and dice them for even cooking!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture the night before, then store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker and set it to cook. This is perfect for a hassle-free dinner after a busy day!
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too dry. This will help keep the casserole moist!
