Introduction
Do you want a warm and filling dinner that’s easy to make and full of flavor? If yes, then Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the perfect meal for you and your family! It’s a hearty dish made with ground beef, beans, potatoes, and cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy days because you can just throw everything into a slow cooker and let it cook while you do other things.
This dish is called “Cowboy Casserole” because it’s packed with ingredients that give you energy and keep you full—just like a meal made for hardworking cowboys! The mix of meat, beans, veggies, and cheese makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and kid-approved. Let’s get started with what you’ll need.
Ingredients – Cowboy Casserole
Here’s a list of simple ingredients you need to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. Most of these are easy to find at any grocery store:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups frozen or canned diced potatoes (or 3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped)
- 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 can (10 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step by Step Process – Cowboy Casserole
This recipe is really easy to follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide that even a beginner can handle:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat.
- Stir until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft.
- Drain the excess fat.
Step 2: Get Your Slow Cooker Ready
- Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray.
- This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to layer everything into the slow cooker:
- First layer: Spread half of the potatoes on the bottom.
- Second layer: Add half of the beef and onion mix.
- Third layer: Pour in half of the beans and corn.
- Fourth layer: Add half of the diced tomatoes.
- Repeat the layers with the rest of the ingredients.
- In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Pour this creamy mix over the top of all the layers.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover again and let it melt.
Step 5: Serve
- Once everything is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted, your cowboy casserole is ready!
- Scoop it into bowls and enjoy. You can serve it with bread, salad, or just by itself.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 950mg |
| Calcium | 150mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use canned potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned diced potatoes. Just make sure to drain them well before adding.
Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and turn on the slow cooker in the morning.
Q3: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup, cream of celery, or even make your own with a little butter, flour, and milk.
Q4: Can I freeze cowboy casserole?
Yes! Once it’s cooked, let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Q5: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure! Skip the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or use a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Q6: What other toppings can I use?
Try adding chopped green onions, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, or even a drizzle of hot sauce on top!
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a delicious, filling, and easy meal that works for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cold evenings when you want comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you can create a dish that everyone will love—kids and adults alike.
The best part? You don’t have to stand over the stove for hours. This recipe is “dump and go,” which means you add everything to the slow cooker, turn it on, and come back to a hot, homemade meal. So next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, give this recipe a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
