Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, one-pot meal that turns simple ingredients into a savory comfort dish. Perfect for busy evenings, it offers rich flavors with minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal slow cooker recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, pico de gallo

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Step 2: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), drained corn, rinsed kidney beans, and beef broth.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the ingredients. Stir well to combine spices evenly.
5. Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until flavors meld and ingredients are tender.
6. Step 6: About 15-20 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and allow cheese to melt.
7. Step 7: Serve hot in bowls with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or pico de gallo.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for more texture and a bit of heat.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for 2-3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this dish on the stove. Brown the beef and onions, then simmer all ingredients in a large pot over low heat for about 30-45 minutes until flavors meld and ingredients are tender.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with plant-based protein or extra beans and vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 57 reviews

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and bold spices, slow-cooked to perfection. Ideal for busy weeknights, it offers a simple set-it-and-forget-it cooking experience with a rich and satisfying flavor.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Pico de gallo

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the beef, onion, and garlic mixture into your slow cooker. Add the undrained diced tomatoes, drained corn, rinsed and drained kidney beans, and beef broth to the slow cooker, combining the ingredients for slow cooking.
4. Add Spices and Stir: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the mixture in the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices throughout the casserole.
5. Cook Slowly: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the ingredients to become tender and flavorful.
6. Add Cheese: About 15-20 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Cover again to melt the cheese through the casserole, adding a creamy texture and rich taste.
7. Serve with Toppings: Ladle the hot casserole into bowls and top with your preferred garnishes such as sour cream, chopped green onions, or pico de gallo to add freshness and additional flavor layers.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• This casserole can be frozen for 2-3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout.
• For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
• Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.

Keywords: slow cooker cowboy casserole, one-pot meal, ground beef casserole, slow cooked dinner, easy comfort food