This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a comforting and easy one-pot meal that combines hearty ground beef, potatoes, beans, and a savory blend of seasonings. Perfect for busy nights, just toss everything in the slow cooker and enjoy a flavorful, family-friendly dinner. With a cheesy, creamy topping, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Prep: Simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with potatoes, beans, ground beef, and veggies for a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild, savory flavors are a big hit with kids.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, use different meats, or spice it up with some heat.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple and affordable ingredients, making it great for families.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and is great for meal prepping.
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 choice)
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Add the cooked beef mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add Potatoes: Layer the sliced potatoes into the slow cooker, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the beef and bean mixture.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, depending on your available time.
- Top with Cheese: In the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole. Let it melt before serving.
Variations & Substitutions:
- Meat Options: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or sausage for a lighter or spicier version.
- Bean Choices: Use black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas for different textures.
- Potato Alternatives: Try sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or cauliflower for a variation.
- Add Heat: Spice it up with jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Serve With:
Pair this casserole with a crisp side salad or cornbread for a complete meal. Steamed green beans or broccoli are great for adding a veggie boost!
Enjoy this satisfying Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole that’s sure to please everyone at the table!