This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a warm and tasty dish with ground beef, beans, and corn topped with cheesy goodness. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days or cozy nights! 🤠
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A classic choice, it adds rich flavor. If you’re looking for leaner options, try ground turkey or chicken. For vegetarian options, crumbled tempeh or mushrooms can work well!
Beans: Black beans and pinto beans provide protein and fiber. You can swap in any beans you like! Kidney beans or chickpeas are great alternatives if you have them on hand.
Corn: Canned corn is super convenient, but frozen corn works just as well. You can also toss in some fresh corn when it’s in season for a crunchier bite.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: This adds a nice kick! If you prefer less spice, go for plain diced tomatoes. You can always add fresh or dried chili peppers later.
C cheeses: Cheddar is a must, but feel free to get creative! Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be fun substitutes. Vegan cheese is also available for dairy-free options.
How Do I Get the Ground Beef Just Right?
Cooking the ground beef properly is key to this dish’s flavor. Begin by heating the skillet to medium heat and add your beef and diced onion together.
- Break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks — this helps it brown evenly.
- Look for a nice brown color, which will add depth to your dish. It should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole. This is a simple step that makes a big difference!
If possible, taste a small piece to ensure it’s cooked through before moving on. Your casserole will benefit from well-cooked beef! Enjoy cooking! 😊
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (optional for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let your slow cooker do the rest! Cook it on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. It’s a great option for throwing together before heading out for the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Don’t forget to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks for even browning!
2. Transfer to the Slow Cooker:
After cooking, drain any excess grease from the skillet so your casserole doesn’t end up too greasy. Carefully transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker to begin layering your casserole!
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the taco seasoning packet into the slow cooker. Gently stir everything until it’s well combined.
4. Cook Your Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re short on time, use the high setting for 2 to 3 hours. If you have more time, let it cook low and slow for 4 to 6 hours. Either way, your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Cheese It Up:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese on top of the casserole. Cover again to let the cheese melt beautifully on top!
6. Season and Serve:
Before dishing it out, taste your casserole and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and if you like, top with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy your hearty and comforting slow cooker cowboy casserole!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for ground beef. They will provide a lighter version of the casserole, keeping all the flavors intact. Just be sure to cook them until they’re fully browned before adding them to the slow cooker.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of additional beans, such as chickpeas or lentils, or use crumbled tempeh for added texture. You can also consider adding diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the beef and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just combine it with the other ingredients in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook. Alternatively, you can assemble everything the night before and refrigerate it. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems dry, adding a splash of broth or water can help revitalizing the casserole!
