This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a comforting mix of ground beef, beans, and delicious spices, topped with tasty tater tots. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I just toss everything in the slow cooker and wait for the magic to happen. Plus, it’s always a hit with my family! 😄
I enjoy serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra yum factor. It’s a simple way to make dinner a bit more special—and everyone’s plates come back clean!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of your casserole. I usually go for lean ground beef (80/20) for flavor but feel free to use turkey or even meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Onion: Chopped onions add a great depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding onions, try using garlic or onion powder instead. Shallots or leeks are also tasty substitutes!
Frozen Corn: This ingredient brings sweetness. If fresh corn is in season, use that instead! You can also swap it out for other veggies like bell peppers or peas if preferred.
Canned Beans: Black and pinto beans are great for protein and fiber. If you’re looking to switch up the flavor, try kidney beans or chickpeas. Canned beans are super convenient, but dried beans work too; just soak and cook them first!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: This adds a nice kick. If you want less spice, choose plain diced tomatoes and add your own spices. You could also use salsa for added flavor.
How Do I Get Crispy Tater Tots on Top?
Getting those tater tots crispy is key for a great finish! Here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure to spread the tater tots evenly on top of the casserole about 30 minutes before it’s done cooking. This allows them to crisp up nicely.
- If you want extra crunch, you could pre-bake the tater tots according to package instructions before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Remove the lid for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This helps steam escape, leading to a crunchy texture.
Trust me, having crispy tater tots will take your cowboy casserole to the next level!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 bag (about 16 oz) frozen tater tots
Time Needed:
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prep and then you’ll let the slow cooker do the work for about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Add in another 30 minutes at the end to get those tater tots nice and crispy. Total dinner magic time: about 7-9 hours depending on your method!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from being too greasy.
2. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Next, take the cooked beef and onion mixture and transfer it to your slow cooker. It’s the hearty base of your casserole!
3. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
Now, add in the frozen corn, the black beans, the pinto beans, the canned diced tomatoes (with all their juices), and the taco seasoning. Give everything a good stir to combine evenly. This step is all about bringing those flavors together!
4. Set the Slow Cooker:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is where all those lovely flavors meld together, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Add the Tater Tots:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the casserole, take the lid off and spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the top of the casserole in the slow cooker. This allows them to get that nice crispy texture.
6. Cook Until Crispy:
Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on high for another 25-30 minutes. This will make sure your tater tots are fully cooked and crispy—so delicious!
7. Melting the Cheese (Optional):
If you love cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the tater tots during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Close the lid so the cheese melts beautifully into the casserole.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is finished cooking, serve your delicious cowboy casserole warm straight from the slow cooker. It’s a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Enjoy your flavorful cowboy casserole! It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for leftovers during the week.
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. It will add a slightly different flavor, but it works perfectly in this recipe. Just cook it the same way as you would the beef!
What Can I Substitute for the Black and Pinto Beans?
If you don’t have black or pinto beans on hand, feel free to use kidney beans, chickpeas, or any other beans you prefer. Just remember to drain and rinse canned versions to reduce sodium!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with additional beans or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture!
