Description
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a comforting and easy one-pot meal packed with ground beef, potatoes, beans, and cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is full of smoky spices and creamy textures, making it a family favorite. Let your slow cooker do the work and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal with minimal effort!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 4 cups baby red potatoes, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Green onions, sliced
- Crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onions to the beef and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole in the Slow Cooker
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer the diced potatoes at the bottom, followed by the cooked ground beef and onions.
- Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juices).
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the layers.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the top and spread evenly. Do not mix.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Casserole
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once done, garnish with fresh parsley, sour cream, or green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a thicker casserole: Leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let excess moisture evaporate.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian alternative: Swap the ground beef for extra beans or plant-based meat.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours (low) / 3–4 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American