This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a warm and hearty dish packed with beef, beans, corn, and cheesy goodness! Just throw everything in the pot and let it do the work for you.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal waiting for you. I love serving it with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. So good, you might get a little cowboy hat just to celebrate! đź¤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually choose lean ground beef for this recipe, but you can use ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. Some people also like to use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Kidney Beans: These add great texture and protein. If kidney beans aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap them with black beans or pinto beans, as they work wonderfully too.
Diced Tomatoes: The canned diced tomatoes are essential for moisture and flavor. If you prefer fresh, use about 2 cups of chopped tomatoes, but you might want to add a splash of broth to keep it saucy.
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their fluffiness. You can also use Yukon Gold or baby potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes can add a nice twist, too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a great flavor. If you’re not a fan, Monterey Jack or pepper jack could be delicious alternatives. Vegan cheese is another option if you’re looking to skip dairy.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Sautéing Onions and Garlic?
The sautĂ©ing step is crucial for building flavor in your casserole. Using olive oil, sautĂ©ing the onions until they’re translucent, and then adding the garlic allows their flavors to deepen and blend beautifully. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the oil in your skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions and cook until they turn soft and see-through, usually around 3-4 minutes.
- Finally, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
This simple step makes a big difference in the final taste of your Cowboy Casserole, so don’t rush it!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and will need 6-8 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just a little bit of time for a hearty, delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This will create a nice base of flavor for your casserole!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir until it is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep your casserole nice and light!
3. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
In a slow cooker, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the cut-up potatoes. Add the chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are nice and tender. Sit back and let the slow cooker do the work!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before your casserole is done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover it again and let it melt into a delicious topping.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s cooked, garnish the top with fresh parsley for a little color and flavor. Scoop it onto your plates and enjoy your hearty Cowboy Casserole!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey instead of ground beef! Just be aware that ground turkey is leaner, so you might want to add a tablespoon of extra olive oil to keep the dish moist. Cook it the same way, and enjoy the lighter version of your Cowboy Casserole!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian Cowboy Casserole, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with additional beans like black beans or pinto beans for protein. You can also throw in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water if it seems a bit dry!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on low heat.
