This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty dish packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and cheesy goodness. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for busy days!
The best part? Just toss everything in the slow cooker and go about your day. When you come back, dinner is ready! I love serving it with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the casserole. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too! For a vegetarian dish, try using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness. I like Russets for their fluffiness, but you can use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a twist. If you’re short on time, frozen diced potatoes are a quick alternative!
Beans: Kidney beans bring nice texture, but feel free to swap in black beans or chickpeas if you prefer. The pinto beans are optional, but they really add a nice creaminess. And if you have leftover beans in the fridge, use them!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds that gooey goodness. I enjoy sharp cheddar for a strong flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese would work just as well!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Potatoes in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking potatoes in a slow cooker can be tricky if you’re not sure how long to cook them. To get them perfectly tender, follow these tips:
- Cut your potatoes into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often; it releases heat and slows cooking down. Only check near the end of the cooking time.
- If you want faster results, parboil the potatoes for 5-10 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker.
- For extra flavor, toss potatoes lightly in oil and seasonings before adding them in.
These tips will help your potatoes cook just right while soaking up all those delicious flavors from the casserole! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional for variety)
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Spices:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 6-7 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high) to cook in the slow cooker. In total, you’ll spend a little over 6 hours, making it a wonderful set-it-and-forget-it meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain off any excess fat to keep your casserole from being greasy. This step adds a ton of flavor!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, take your browned beef mixture and transfer it to the slow cooker. Add in the diced potatoes, drained kidney beans (and pinto beans if you’re using them), diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the frozen corn. Then sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine!
3. Cook the Casserole:
Cover your slow cooker and let it do its magic! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the potatoes to be tender and all those delicious flavors to meld together. Try to resist the temptation to peek too often, as this can release heat!
4. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the casserole. Cover it back up and let the cheese melt into gooey perfection!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, it’s time to serve your delicious casserole. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor, if you like. Serve it hot, and it pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or a fresh green salad!
This comforting slow cooker casserole is packed with protein and veggies, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors as you dig into this hearty meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great, leaner alternative. Just follow the same browning instructions, and you’ll end up with a delicious dish just the same!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Casserole?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced carrots for extra nutrition and color. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the potatoes for even cooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can! After cooking, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
