Description
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring savory ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, it’s a family-friendly recipe that’s simple to make and full of delicious comfort. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it to suit your tastes, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your home!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 3–4 medium potatoes, unpeeled, cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for added spice)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, layer the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer Ingredients: On top of the potatoes, add the browned beef mixture, followed by the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), frozen corn, and chopped green bell pepper.
- Add Liquids: Pour the beef broth over the layered ingredients.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted.
Notes
- Meat Options: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat can replace the ground beef.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend cheese can be used in place of cheddar.
- Spice Adjustments: Add diced jalapeños or more chili powder to increase the spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Casserole, Slow Cooker, Comfort Food
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
