Print

Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 96 reviews

This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring ground beef, diced potatoes, beans, tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese, it packs a flavorful punch with minimal prep. Simply brown the beef, combine ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook low and slow until tender. Ideal for set-it-and-forget-it dinners, it’s customizable with optional veggies and protein swaps.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 4 cups diced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (mild or spicy based on preference)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Spices

  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness and to enhance flavor.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: Transfer the browned beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add diced potatoes, drained kidney beans, pinto beans if using, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and frozen corn. Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika if using, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  3. Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain consistent heat. The casserole is done when potatoes are tender and flavors have melded together.
  4. Add the Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt into a gooey topping.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added color and flavor if desired. Serve hot, ideally with tortilla chips or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For leaner protein options, substitute ground turkey or chicken and brown as directed.
  • If short on time, parboil diced potatoes for 5-10 minutes before adding to the slow cooker to ensure tenderness.
  • Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or diced carrots cut to uniform sizes for even cooking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water.
  • To freeze, cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers; freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
  • Avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently during cooking as it releases heat and prolongs cook time.

Keywords: slow cooker casserole, cowboy casserole, ground beef casserole, easy dinner, slow cooker recipe, hearty casserole

Find it online: https://topreci.com/easy-slow-cooker-cowboy-casserole-recipe/