This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty dish packed with layers of ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Cooking it in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. Perfect for busy days when you want a cozy meal ready when you come home!
I love how everything cooks together, making dinner easy and tasty. Serve it with some bread, and you’re all set for a satisfying meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I enjoy using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey works well too if you’re looking for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, consider substituting with lentils or black beans for protein.
Kidney Beans: These add texture and protein. You can swap them for black beans or pinto beans, depending on what you have available or your taste preference. Canned versions save time while dried beans need soaking and cooking.
Diced Tomatoes: I love using the canned variety for convenience and flavor. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can use those—just chop them and add them to the mix, though the sauce may be a bit thinner.
Potatoes: For a heartier texture, I go with regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes can be a tasty substitute. They add a bit of sweetness and color to the dish. Just adjust your cooking time slightly if using sweet potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a delicious finish. If you want a different flavor, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. Dairy-free cheese options are now available too!
How Do I Get the Potatoes Cooked Perfectly in the Slow Cooker?
The key to getting your potatoes tender lies in the cooking time and how you cut them. Make sure to cut the potatoes into even, bite-sized pieces; this ensures they cook at the same rate. If they are too large, they may not cook through.
- Layer the bottom of the slow cooker with the diced potatoes before adding other ingredients. This way, they absorb all the fantastic flavors!
- Cooking on low for 6-8 hours tends to yield the best results. If you’re short on time, make sure to check for doneness at the 4-5 hour mark on high.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For The Topping:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and will need to cook for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s a great way to set it and forget it, allowing you to come back to a warm and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by placing a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s fully browned. This will usually take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat in the skillet once it’s done, drain the excess fat so your casserole doesn’t end up greasy.
2. Combine the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Next, grab your slow cooker! Combine the cooked ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (make sure to include the juice!), diced potatoes, chopped onion, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together nicely.
3. Add the Broth and Cook:
Now, pour the beef broth (or water) over the mixture in the slow cooker. Gently stir again to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
4. Let It Cook:
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. You want to cook it until the potatoes are nice and tender—this is when the magic happens!
5. Add the Cheese:
When there’s about 30 minutes left in the cooking time, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover it again so the cheese can melt beautifully into the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cooking time is up, give the casserole a gentle stir to mix in the melted cheese. Garnish it with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions. You might want to add a little extra seasoning or a splash of broth, as turkey can be less flavorful than beef.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. Just chop them roughly the same size as the potatoes so they cook evenly. If you’re using firmer vegetables, you might want to add them earlier in the cooking process.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole in the slow cooker and layer everything, but don’t add the cheese yet. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just turn on the slow cooker and continue as the recipe directs, adding the cheese during the last 30 minutes!
