Cowboy Casserole is a beloved, hearty dish that combines rich, savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and wholesome beans. It’s the perfect comfort food that satisfies the whole family, especially when made in a slow cooker. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this casserole is a breeze to make—simply toss everything in, let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the delicious aroma as it fills your home. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this casserole will become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
This one-pot wonder is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone feeling full and satisfied. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Effortless Prep: Throw everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. It’s the easiest meal for busy weeknights.
- Hearty & Filling: Loaded with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, beans, and veggies, this casserole is a complete meal in one.
- Kid-Friendly: Mild and tasty, it’s a hit with kids and perfect for picky eaters.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or heat it up with jalapeños for a personalized touch.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, it’s a meal that won’t break the bank.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ 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
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups sliced potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and garlic until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are tender. Drain excess fat.
- Combine in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Add the Potatoes: Layer the sliced potatoes on top of the beef mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the sauce.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Add the Cheese: About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole and let it melt. Once the cheese is gooey and golden, it’s ready to serve!
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or microwave. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Choices: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter meal, or swap in sausage or chorizo for a smoky, spicy flavor.
- Bean Options: Pinto, black, or even baked beans are great alternatives to kidney beans, providing different textures and flavors.
- Potato Substitutes: For a lower-carb option, replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or cauliflower.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, toss in jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a splash of hot sauce to give it some spice. You can also use spicy salsa for an added burst of flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
This casserole is great on its own but also pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Salads: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the casserole.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a delightful complement to the savory casserole.
- Veggies: Steamed green beans or broccoli add color and nutrition to round out the meal.
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Enjoy the hearty, satisfying flavors of this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole! It’s a delicious and easy meal that brings comfort to your table.