Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

A Hearty and Comforting One-Pot Meal

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and packed with flavors that will satisfy the whole family. This dish brings together ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, slow-cooked to perfection. With minimal prep and a set-it-and-forget-it approach, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making it ideal for hands-off cooking.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser with flavors kids and adults love.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and reheats well.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup beef broth

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
• Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).

2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker

• Layer the diced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Add the cooked beef mixture, followed by kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
• In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, beef broth, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Pour over the layered ingredients.

3. Cook to Perfection

• Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

4. Add Cheese and Serve

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
• Once the cheese is melted, serve hot.

Variations and Additions

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder for more heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans.
• Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be added for more nutrition.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 7 hours, depending on setting

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish creamier?

Add extra cheese, sour cream, or a splash of heavy cream before serving.

Can I use canned potatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

What’s the best slow cooker size for this recipe?

A 6-quart slow cooker works best for even cooking and layering.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes! Bake in a covered casserole dish at 350°F for about 1 hour or until potatoes are tender.

Do I have to brown the beef first?

While you can skip browning, doing so enhances the flavor and removes excess grease.

Can I add bacon to this recipe?

Absolutely! Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a delicious smoky touch.

What’s a good substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade roux with butter, flour, and milk.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just add them directly—no need to thaw first.

How do I make this a dump-and-go recipe?

Use pre-cooked or canned ground beef to skip the browning step.

What sides go well with Cowboy Casserole?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a simple, satisfying meal packed with hearty flavors and easy-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, fuss-free dinner!

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