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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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