why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the flavors of the American West right to your home. It combines tender ground beef, colorful vegetables, and creamy cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The best part is that you can set it and forget it; the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 (16-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, undrained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with fire roasted hatch chilies, with juice
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder
- 1½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced about ⅛ inch thick
- 1¼ cups Colby and Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
Directions:
- Lightly spray your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and transfer to the crockpot.
- Add the kidney beans, petite diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with chilies, frozen corn, salt, pepper, and chipotle powder; stir until well combined.
- Remove 1½ cups of the meat mixture and set it aside.
- Layer the sliced potatoes into the crockpot and sprinkle the reserved meat mixture over the top.
- Cover and cook on high for 5 hours or low for 7 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle the cheese on top and cover again until melted. Serve hot.
how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Serve this delicious casserole hot, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully on top. You can dish it out into individual bowls or serve family-style straight from the slow cooker. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
To store any leftover casserole, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- For added flavor, consider using different types of cheeses or even adding a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce before serving.
- Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook properly during slow cooking.
- You can also add other vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to boost nutritional content.
variation (if any)
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit different tastes. For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and replace it with plant-based meat or more beans. You can also swap out the Yukon Gold potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of meat?
A: Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Q: Can I cook it on the stovetop instead?
A: Yes, you can make this casserole on the stovetop by simmering everything together until the potatoes are tender.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: This casserole goes well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or even tortilla chips for some crunch.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Lightly spray your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic until the beef is no longer pink.
- Drain any excess grease and transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the kidney beans, petite diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with chilies, frozen corn, salt, pepper, and chipotle powder; stir until well combined.
- Remove 1½ cups of the meat mixture and set it aside.
- Layer the sliced potatoes into the crockpot and sprinkle the reserved meat mixture over the top.
- Cover and cook on high for 5 hours or low for 7 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle the cheese on top and cover again until melted.
Notes
Name: Yumi HwagByline: Founder & Recipe Developer, YumimealsBio : Yumi tests weeknight-friendly air fryer, slow cooker, and BBQ recipes in a small home kitchen. She focuses on simple steps, real-family testing, and clear food-safety guidance. Contact: [email protected]