Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, and flavorful spices, this casserole simmers slowly to develop rich, homey flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups sliced potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Gather all ingredients and chop the onion and slice the potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
2. Step 2: Rinse and drain the kidney beans to reduce excess salt.
3. Step 3: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain off any excess fat.
4. Step 4: Layer the casserole in the slow cooker starting with the sliced potatoes, then add the browned beef, chopped onion, garlic, kidney beans, frozen corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
7. Step 7: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover again, and allow the cheese to melt.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
• Add a handful of chopped bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• To make it gluten-free, ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or use a homemade version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole without the cheese topping for up to 2 months, then add fresh cheese when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours covered with foil, until the potatoes are tender. Add the cheese topping in the last 10 minutes to melt.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day; you may need to add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting cold.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 449 reviews

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy days. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, vegetables, and cheese, it’s slow-cooked to perfection, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Ideal for a family dinner, this casserole combines convenience with rich, robust flavors in a simple, hands-off cooking process.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups sliced potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup frozen corn

Canned Goods

• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)

Instructions

1. Gather Ingredients: Assemble all the ingredients listed to ensure a smooth cooking process without interruptions.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Chop the onion and mince the garlic uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole.
3. Drain Beans: Rinse and drain the canned kidney beans thoroughly to reduce excess salt and preserve freshness.
4. Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
5. Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Start by spreading the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the browned ground beef, followed by the chopped onions, minced garlic, corn, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies in layers.
6. Mix and Pour Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
7. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
8. Add Cheese and Melt: About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt thoroughly before serving.

Notes

• For a spicier kick, add additional chili powder or diced jalapeños.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• Serve with a side of fresh green salad or warm crusty bread for a complete meal.

Keywords: slow cooker casserole, cowboy casserole, ground beef casserole, slow cooked meal, easy dinner recipe, comfort food, hearty casserole, potatoes and beef