Description
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty mix of beef, potatoes, beans, and cheese—perfect for an easy, comforting family dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups potatoes, diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup milk
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for spice)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon cumin (for a smoky kick)
- ½ cup crispy bacon bits
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Drain any excess grease and transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Add the diced potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Layer the kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes on top.
- Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, milk, and sour cream.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients without breaking up the potatoes too much.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Cover and let the cheese melt into the casserole.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Stir everything together and serve hot.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese.
- Enjoy on its own or with cornbread, biscuits, or a side salad.
Notes
- Use Fresh or Frozen Potatoes: Fresh potatoes work best, but frozen diced potatoes can be used for convenience.
- Don’t Over-Stir: To keep the potatoes intact, avoid excessive stirring during cooking.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños, extra chili powder, or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make It Creamier: Mix in a little extra sour cream or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Layer Properly: Always place potatoes on the bottom so they cook properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)