why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. It combines hearty ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and beans to create a filling meal that is perfect for busy days. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to blend while you go about your day. It’s easy to make and great for feeding a family or for meal prepping for the week.
how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, diced potatoes, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover to let it melt.
- Serve hot and enjoy your hearty meal!
how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Serve the Cowboy Casserole hot right from the slow cooker. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad. You can also top it with additional cheese, sour cream, or green onions for extra flavor.
how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
To store the leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or use spicy diced tomatoes.
- Make sure to use a lean ground beef to reduce the grease in your casserole.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
- If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last hour of cooking.
variation
You can easily make this Cowboy Casserole using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, swapping out the kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans can change the flavor profile while still keeping it delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How can I adjust the cooking time?
If you are short on time, using the high setting on your slow cooker will cook the casserole in about 3-4 hours. If you have the time, the low setting is best for deeper flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before and store them in the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator. Just plug it in the next day when you’re ready to cook.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, diced potatoes, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover to let it melt.
- Serve hot and enjoy your hearty meal!