Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, and a creamy tomato sauce. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful dinner waiting for you at home.

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 prepare your veggies by chopping the onion and slicing the potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
2. Step 2: Rinse and drain the kidney beans to reduce excess salt before adding them to the dish.
3. Step 3: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, stirring occasionally, then drain any excess fat.
4. Step 4: In your slow cooker, layer the sliced potatoes first, followed by the cooked ground beef, chopped onions, garlic, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and frozen corn.
5. Step 5: In a bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and flavors have melded together.
7. Step 7: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole, cover again, and allow it to melt.
8. Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy your comforting cowboy casserole.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup mixture.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use your favorite cheese variety such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
• Adding a layer of crushed tortilla chips on top before adding cheese adds a nice crunchy texture.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the potatoes are tender.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Fresh tomatoes can be used, but you may need to adjust cooking time and add a bit of tomato sauce or broth to maintain moisture, as canned diced tomatoes contain liquid that helps cook the casserole evenly.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 104 reviews

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal combining seasoned ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and cheese, slow-cooked to tender perfection. Ideal for busy days, it delivers a satisfying dinner with minimal prep and hands-off cooking time.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• 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 and Dairy

• 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 shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)

Spices

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

Instructions

1. Gather Ingredients: Collect all necessary ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Chop the onion and slice the potatoes uniformly to help them cook evenly in the slow cooker.
3. Rinse Beans: Drain and rinse the kidney beans to reduce excess sodium and improve flavor.
4. Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness in the casserole.
5. Layer Ingredients: Begin layering in the slow cooker starting with the sliced potatoes, followed by the browned beef, chopped onions, garlic, corn, rinsed beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
6. Mix Cream Base: In a 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. Cook: Cover and cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking time allows flavors to meld and potatoes to become tender.
8. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover again until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Notes

• For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or include a diced jalapeño.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option.
• If you prefer thicker potatoes, peel them before slicing.
• This casserole can be prepared the night before; just add cheese and cook the following day.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: slow cooker casserole, cowboy casserole, ground beef casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, slow cooker recipes