This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! With layers of ground beef, corn, beans, and cheesy goodness, it’s a one-pot meal that warms you from the inside out.
It feels like a big hug after a long day! I love tossing everything in the slow cooker and letting it do its thing while I relax. Easy meals make life better, don’t you think?
Plus, you can enjoy the leftovers for lunch, making this recipe a real time-saver. It’s like having a cowboy cook for you, minus the hat and spurs! 🤠
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of your casserole, but you can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative to keep the texture hearty.
Pinto Beans: Pinto beans add protein and fiber. If you can’t find them, black beans or kidney beans make great substitutions. They will both add their unique flavors and keep the dish nutritious.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These bring a nice kick to the dish. If you prefer less heat, use plain diced tomatoes and add a pinch of chili powder instead. This way, you can control the spice level to your liking.
Potatoes: I used regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes also work well for a different flavor. Just keep in mind it might alter the taste slightly, adding sweetness rather than the earthy flavor of white potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can add a creamy texture and extra spice. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese that melts well.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Tender?
A common challenge in casseroles is ensuring the potatoes cook perfectly. Since this recipe uses a slow cooker, the key here is to cut your potatoes into uniform pieces to help them cook evenly. You want them diced into about 1-inch cubes.
- Place the diced potatoes in the slow cooker above the meat and beans. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Cooking on low (6-7 hours) often yields the best results, but if you’re short on time, the high setting (3-4 hours) will do the trick. Just check for tenderness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cowboy casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare. Then it cooks for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day since you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. As you cook, be sure to break the beef apart with a spatula. Once golden, season the meat with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for that awesome flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat once the beef is cooked!
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, add the browned ground beef. Then, layer in the pinto beans, diced tomatoes (including their juices), chopped onion, and diced potatoes. This will create a hearty base for your casserole.
3. Combine with Broth:
Pour the beef broth over all the ingredients in the slow cooker. Give everything a gentle stir to mix it up nicely. This will help all those flavors meld together while it cooks!
4. Slow Cook It:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. If you’re cooking on low, let it go for 6-7 hours; if you’re short on time, the high setting for 3-4 hours works just as well. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and soft!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it again, and let the cheese melt beautifully into the dish. It’ll add a creamy, cheesy layer that everyone will love!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cooking time is up, give the casserole a gentle stir to mix in that melted cheese. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of this cowboy delight!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, and you might want to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor since turkey tends to be milder.
How Can I Adjust the Cooking Time?
If you’re short on time, you can cook this casserole on high for about 3 hours, or if you prefer to plan ahead, you can cook it on low for 6-7 hours. Just check that the potatoes are tender before serving!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using a can of black beans or more pinto beans instead. You could also add some diced bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems a bit dry when warming up.
