This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is packed with ground beef, cheesy goodness, and comforting vegetables. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and super easy to make!
I love just tossing everything into the slow cooker and letting it work its magic. Plus, the smell that fills the kitchen is basically happiness in a pot! 🍲
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein but feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a plant-based choice, try lentils or meat substitutes like textured vegetable protein (TVP).
Beans: I used kidney and pinto beans for variety. You could easily swap these for black beans or chickpeas, depending on what you have handy. They’re all packed with protein and fiber, which is great!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: If you don’t have this on hand, regular diced tomatoes work too. Just throw in a bit of chili powder for the heat! You can also use crushed tomatoes for a different consistency.
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes for their fluffiness. However, you can substitute with sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness or even use frozen hash browns for convenience.
Cheese: Cheddar is a crowd-pleaser, but you could also use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for spice, or a mix of your favorites. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese.
How Do I Get My Casserole to Cook Evenly in the Slow Cooker?
Getting the balance right in a slow cooker can be tricky, but there are a few tips to help ensure everything cooks perfectly. The key is layering your ingredients smartly.
- Start by adding your hearty items like potatoes and beans at the bottom, as they take longer to cook.
- Then add the cooked beef, onions, and tomatoes on top. This way, the beef flavors infuse the veggies.
- Make sure to stir everything together gently before covering; this helps distribute the spices evenly.
- Check the potatoes around the 6-hour mark if cooking on low; they should be fork-tender when done.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and will need to cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, set it in the morning and enjoy a warm, hearty meal by dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
Next, transfer the cooked ground beef to your slow cooker. Then add the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), diced potatoes, and diced onion. You want to mix everything well so that the flavors combine as they cook.
3. Season the Mixture:
Now, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and a dash of salt and pepper over the top of your casserole ingredients. Give everything a good stir to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed.
4. Start Cooking:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. It’s ready when the potatoes are tender!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the slow cooker again and let the cheese melt, creating a gooey and delicious topping!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s all cooked and the cheese is melted, feel free to garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color if you like. Serve your hot Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole and enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Cook it in the skillet just as you would the beef, making sure it’s fully browned before adding it to the slow cooker. The flavors will still come through beautifully!
What If I Don’t Have Kidney or Pinto Beans?
No problem! You can easily swap in other canned beans like black beans or chickpeas. Just remember to rinse and drain them well before adding to the casserole for best results. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have in your pantry!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can layer all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just plug in the cooker and set the timer. This makes for a convenient and quick start to your meal!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it up on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Enjoy this comfort food again!
