Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a delightful one-pot meal that is both hearty and satisfying. This dish combines ground beef, beans, and potatoes, making it a filling option for dinner. It is perfect for busy days since you can prepare it in the morning and let the slow cooker do all the work. Not only is it easy to make, but it is also versatile and can please even picky eaters. This recipe is great for families and gatherings, offering comfort food that everyone will enjoy.

how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Making Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is simple and straightforward.

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 preference)

Directions:

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
  3. Rinse and drain canned beans to reduce salt.
  4. Brown ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
  5. Layer in the slow cooker: first the potatoes, then the beef, vegetables, and beans.
  6. Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients.
  7. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
  8. About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover until melted.

how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

When ready to serve, scoop portions of the Cowboy Casserole into bowls. It tastes great on its own, but you can serve it with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Leftover Cowboy Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave until hot or warm it up in a pot on the stove.

tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

  • To save time, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and assemble them in the slow cooker in the morning.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
  • If you like it spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy diced tomatoes.

variation

For a healthier option, you can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrients.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last about 2-3 months in the freezer.

2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables work well in this recipe. Just remember to chop them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

3. How do I add more flavor to the casserole?
You can enhance the flavor by adding additional spices like cumin, paprika, or even Worcestershire sauce. Mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley also adds a nice touch.

Delicious Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole served in a bowl with toppings

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

A hearty and satisfying one-pot meal combining ground beef, beans, and potatoes, perfect for busy days and family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Chop uniformly for even cooking.
  • 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 Rinsing reduces sodium.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies Can use spicy tomatoes for extra heat.
  • 1 cup frozen corn Alternatively, use fresh corn.
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 cups sliced potatoes (about 1.5 lbs) Can substitute with sweet potatoes.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or your preferred cheese.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather all ingredients.
  • Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
  • Rinse and drain canned beans to reduce salt.
  • Brown ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat.

Cooking

  • Layer in the slow cooker: first the potatoes, then the beef, vegetables, and beans.
  • Mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients.
  • Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
  • About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover until melted.

Notes

Leftover Cowboy Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave until hot or warm it up in a pot on the stove. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Keyword beef stew, Comfort Food, Cowboy Casserole, One-Pot Meal, slow cooker

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