This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is packed with ground beef, beans, and tons of cheese. It’s the perfect meal for chilly nights and requires no fuss—just throw it in and let it cook!
Honestly, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love topping mine with a dollop of sour cream and some gooey extra cheese. Who doesn’t love a cheesy bonus? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or textured vegetable protein.
Kidney Beans: These add great protein and fiber. If you can’t find kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work just as well. They’re both delicious and provide similar texture.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring moisture and acidity, balancing the flavors. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 4-5 cups of chopped ripe tomatoes, but remember to adjust cooking time as they release more liquid.
Frozen Diced Potatoes: These make prep easy, but you can use fresh diced potatoes. Just make sure to parboil them first to reduce the cooking time in your slow cooker.
Chili Powder: This seasoning gives the casserole sweetness and depth. For less heat, consider using mild paprika or a mix of cumin and smoked paprika.
How Do I Brown Ground Beef Properly?
Browning your ground beef properly is key for a flavorful base. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat before adding the beef. This helps it cook evenly.
- Break up the beef as it cooks, allowing it to brown well on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onions halfway through browning to soften them and allow their flavors to meld with the meat.
- If you have excess grease, don’t be shy about draining it off for a less greasy dish.
By taking the time to brown your beef and onion correctly, you set a strong flavor foundation for your cowboy casserole! Enjoy the hearty taste it brings to the dish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 cups frozen diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cowboy casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs to cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a comforting meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, and the onions have softened—this should take about 6-8 minutes. If needed, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish light.
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Once the beef and onion are cooked, carefully transfer the mixture into your slow cooker. It’s okay if some bits stick to the skillet; just add all the delicious flavors into the cooker!
3. Mix in the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with all their juices), frozen diced potatoes, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors nicely.
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it 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 nice and tender.
5. Add Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you plan on serving the casserole, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt into that delicious mix.
6. Serve Warm:
When it’s ready, give the casserole a little stir, and if you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty cowboy casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink. It will give the casserole a lighter flavor, but the spices and other ingredients will still keep it delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Frozen Diced Potatoes?
No worries! You can use fresh potatoes instead. Just dice them into small cubes and add them to the slow cooker at the same time as the other ingredients. You might want to increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes to ensure they are tender.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or increase the number of beans you use (like adding black beans). It will still be hearty and delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or heat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If you find the casserole has thickened, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it while reheating.
