This hearty and flavorful Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes, ground beef, and a medley of vegetables in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is a family favorite thatโs as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
- Rich and Comforting: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender potatoes and savory beef makes it irresistible.
- Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your familyโs tastes or dietary needs.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good (or better!) the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: Youโll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Potatoes
- Onion
- Garlic
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Corn
- Shredded cheese
- Seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder
Directions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onions and garlic. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the slow cooker with non-stick spray or line it for easy cleanup.
- Layer Ingredients: Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes, then add the browned beef, followed by corn, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, then pour evenly over the layers.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Add Cheese: In the last 20-30 minutes, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and allow it to melt.
- Serve: Scoop and serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onions if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeรฑos or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Different Proteins: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers, green beans, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the casserole seems dry.
FAQs
How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?
Use waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold, as they hold their shape better during long cooking times.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the ingredients the night before and refrigerate the slow cooker insert. Just start cooking in the morning.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work well.
How do I reduce the saltiness?
Opt for low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and diced tomatoes. Adjust salt to taste.
Can I skip the cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with a homemade roux-based sauce or cream of chicken soup.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure that all canned and packaged ingredients, such as the soup and tomatoes, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I add beans to this recipe?
Yes, black beans or kidney beans make a great addition for added protein and texture.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Certainly! Dice fresh tomatoes and use about 2 cups as a replacement.
What size slow cooker should I use?
A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and flavor. Whether youโre preparing a family dinner or looking for a meal that makes great leftovers, this casserole has you covered. Try it today and experience the cozy, homemade goodness in every bite!
Print
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy days. Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, beans, and cheese, itโs a crowd-pleaser thatโs incredibly easy to make. Just set it in the slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside. - Layer the Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, layer half the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Top with half of the cooked ground beef, half the onion, and garlic. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, onion, and garlic. - Add the Canned Ingredients:
Spread the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and corn over the top of the layers. - Season and Add Broth:
Sprinkle smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Pour the beef broth evenly over the ingredients. - Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender. - Add Cheese:
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let it melt. - Serve:
Stir gently before serving and enjoy your casserole warm!
Notes
- Feel free to use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
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