Description
Slow Cooker Cowboy Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce on a toasted bun. This easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 sandwich buns, toasted
Instructions
- Brown the Beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Add Flavor Enhancers – Add chopped onions, crumbled bacon, barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in the Cheese – About 15 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt into the beef mixture.
- Assemble the Sandwiches – Spoon the beef mixture onto toasted sandwich buns and serve immediately.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Swiss, or provolone.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) / 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Sandwiches, Slow Cooker Meals
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Slow Cooker Sandwiches, Cowboy Sandwiches, Easy Beef Sandwiches, BBQ Beef Sandwich, Comfort Food