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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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.

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

  • 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