This hearty cowboy casserole is a comforting mix of ground beef, beans, and corn, all simmered together in your slow cooker. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
The best part? You can just throw everything in and let it do its thing while you relax. Perfect for busy days when you want a yummy homemade meal with zero fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I like using ground turkey for a leaner option, but beef adds great flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try lentils or a meat substitute like chopped mushrooms or tempeh for a similar texture.
Kidney Beans: These are classic, but black beans or pinto beans also work well. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using chickpeas instead.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are perfect here for convenience. You can use fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand, just chop and add them with some juice. A little tomato paste can boost the richness too.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. Vegan cheese options are available if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking potatoes in a slow cooker can be easy, but getting them just right takes some thought. It’s key to cut them into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Here’s how:
- Peel and dice your potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This size cooks evenly.
- Add them to the slow cooker before other ingredients for better cooking. They are hearty and benefit from that longer cook time.
- Mix the potatoes in with other items to coat them in flavor from the broth and spices.
- Always check tenderness with a fork before serving. If they aren’t soft enough, let them cook a little longer.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For Seasoning:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cowboy Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then it cooks for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Perfect for a hearty meal with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole nice and healthy!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Grab your slow cooker and place the browned meat inside. Then, add in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!), frozen corn, diced potatoes, and the diced onion. This mix is going to be the base of your delicious casserole!
3. Season the Mixture:
It’s time to spice things up! Sprinkle the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, along with some salt and pepper over the mixture. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is nicely combined.
4. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Now, let it cook! Choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and everything is smelling amazing.
5. Add the Cheese:
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle your lovely shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt into that hearty goodness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done cooking, remove the lid and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you’d like some color. Serve your Cowboy Casserole warm and enjoy this filling and comforting dish with friends and family!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. It will work just as well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can be slightly drier, so you might want to add a splash of broth or a bit more seasoning to enhance flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Kidney Beans?
No problem! You can substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well before adding to the slow cooker for the best texture and flavor.
Can I Prep This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before. Just layer them in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking, or you can cook it straight from the fridge; just be aware it might take a bit longer to reach the desired temperature.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through!
