If you’re looking for a recipe that’s hearty, flavorful, and practically effortless, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is just the thing. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you need to feed a crowd, this dish is a satisfying blend of ground beef, beans, potatoes, and cheese, all simmered together in a rich, savory sauce. Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you enjoy the comforting aroma wafting through your home.
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 medium red or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the ingredients
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and slice the potatoes thinly (about ¼ inch thick). No need to peel them—just make sure they’re evenly sliced for even cooking.
Step 2: Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker.
- Add a layer of sliced potatoes to the bottom.
- Spoon a portion of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the beef.
- Repeat the layers—potatoes, beef mixture, cheese—until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.
Step 3: Cook the casserole
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and all the flavors are melded together.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy
- Scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls and top with additional cheese if desired.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream, fresh chopped parsley, or a side of crusty bread for an extra cozy meal.
Tips for the Perfect Cowboy Casserole
- Add a kick of spice: For a spicier dish, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or an extra can of beans.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding crispy bacon bits, diced green onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with classic cowboy flavors. It’s also a one-pot wonder, meaning less time cleaning up and more time enjoying the meal with loved ones. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
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