Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for busy days. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, and flavorful spices, it’s an easy one-pot meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups potatoes, chopped (Russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• Sour cream and chopped chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped potatoes, kidney beans, corn, tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Step 3: Add the cooked ground beef to the slow cooker and mix everything together gently.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
5. Step 5: If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to melt.
6. Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with sour cream and chopped chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the slow cooker.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Use fresh diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a chunkier texture.
• Add bell peppers or onions for additional flavor and vegetables.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake the combined ingredients in a covered casserole dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender.

What type of potatoes work best in this recipe?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended because they hold their shape well and have a great texture when slow-cooked.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 69 reviews

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines ground beef, tender potatoes, kidney beans, corn, and a rich tomato sauce. Infused with garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and seasoning, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner with minimal prep. Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker, let it cook low and slow, then top with cheese and garnish with sour cream and chives for a satisfying dish.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups potatoes, chopped (Russet or Yukon Gold recommended)

Canned Ingredients

• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

Spices

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• Sour cream (optional, for garnish)
• Chopped chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary, then transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
3. Add Vegetables and Beans: Add the chopped potatoes, drained kidney beans, and drained corn to the slow cooker on top of the beef.
4. Mix in Tomato Sauce and Spices: Pour the tomato sauce over the slow cooker ingredients. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Add Cheese Topping: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
7. Serve: Spoon the casserole into bowls or plates. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives if desired. Enjoy warm!

Notes

• Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for best texture.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water during the last hour of cooking.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste; smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Keywords: Slow Cooker, Cowboy Casserole, Ground Beef, Potatoes, Kidney Beans, Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal, Easy Dinner