This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty mix of ground beef, beans, and corn, all topped with cheesy goodness. It’s a warm hug on a plate! 🌽🧀
I love letting it simmer all day while I’m busy. By dinner time, the smell fills the house, and it’s impossible to resist! Perfect for busy nights with family or friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for this recipe. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a meat-free meal, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Kidney Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work well too. Just make sure to rinse them to reduce sodium content.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring moisture and flavor. If using fresh tomatoes, about 3 cups would do. You might consider crushed tomatoes if you want a smoother texture.
Potatoes: I use russet potatoes for their fluffiness, but Yukon gold or even sweet potatoes can switch up the flavor. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes will make the dish a bit sweeter.
Cheddar Cheese: While I recommend sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, you can use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a milder or spicier twist. Use vegan cheese if you need a dairy-free option!
How Should I Prepare the Ground Beef for This Casserole?
Preparing the ground beef properly can enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole. Browning the beef first can deepen its taste, but it’s not mandatory. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil (optional).
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it apart while it cooks.
- Drain excess fat if desired to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
This step builds flavor but if you’re in a hurry, feel free to toss the raw beef directly into the slow cooker. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may need a little longer to cook through.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for browning beef, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 6-8 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you want a warm, comforting meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Cook it until it’s fully browned and then drain any extra fat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. If you want to skip this step, you can simply add the raw ground beef straight into the slow cooker instead.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, mix together the cooked ground beef (or uncooked if you chose that route), kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), diced potatoes, diced onion, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Cooking the Casserole:
Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You want to cook it until the potatoes are nice and tender—this is what makes the casserole hearty and delicious!
4. Adding the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before your casserole is done cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Cover it again so the cheese can melt beautifully into the casserole.
5. Serving Your Casserole:
Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, scoop the Cowboy Casserole into bowls and garnish with some fresh chopped parsley. Serve it hot and enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker. Since turkey can be drier, consider adding a splash of broth to help keep the casserole moist.
What Can I Substitute for Kidney Beans?
If you don’t have kidney beans on hand, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Just make sure they’re drained and rinsed well before adding them to the mix. Each type will bring its own flavor but will still complement the dish nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them up and add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Keep in mind, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly for denser vegetables.
