Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like the hearty, comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole filling your kitchen. This rustic dish combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a meal that's both satisfying and easy to make.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when looking for an effortless dinner that could cook while I tackled a busy day. After one bite, my family was hooked, and now it’s a regular in our meal rotation. Packed with protein and flavor, this cowboy casserole is the ultimate one-pot comfort food.

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with this rich and hearty dish. Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the perfect recipe for anyone who craves comfort food with minimal effort.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just layer the ingredients in your slow cooker, set it, and let it work its magic. No need for constant stirring or supervision—this dish practically cooks itself.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using affordable pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and beans means you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank.

Another great perk? It’s a complete meal in one dish. With protein, carbs, and veggies all in one pot, you won’t have to worry about making extra sides.

Best of all, the flavors only get better over time. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich, smoky, and cheesy casserole that’s absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is that it uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dish.

Ground beef forms the base of this casserole. I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to prevent excess grease. If using fattier beef, be sure to drain the excess fat after browning.

Potatoes add heartiness and texture. Russet potatoes hold up well during slow cooking, but red potatoes or Yukon golds also work great. Just be sure to cut them into evenly sized cubes for even cooking.

Canned beans provide protein and fiber. Kidney beans or black beans are traditional choices, but pinto beans also work well for a slightly softer texture.

Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes create the perfect base. The combination of acidity and sweetness balances the richness of the beef and cheese. If you like a little heat, try using fire-roasted tomatoes with green chilies.

Cheddar cheese melts into the casserole, adding a creamy, gooey texture. Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can also use a Mexican blend or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

A slow cooker is essential for this recipe. A 6-quart slow cooker works best to ensure even cooking without overflowing.

How To Make This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

This recipe couldn’t be easier—just a few simple steps and your slow cooker does the rest!

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, and season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth. Once browned, drain any excess grease.

Next, slice and dice your potatoes into small cubes. No need to peel them unless you prefer a smoother texture. Place them in the bottom of the slow cooker to form the first layer.

Now, it’s time to start layering. Add half of the browned beef over the potatoes, followed by a layer of canned beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in some seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder for an extra boost of flavor.

Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous topping of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the tomato sauce over everything to ensure the casserole stays moist and flavorful as it cooks.

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When done, the potatoes should be fork-tender, and the cheese perfectly melted. Give it a gentle stir before serving to mix all those delicious layers together.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this cowboy casserole store beautifully, making it a great meal prep option.

For refrigeration, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For freezing, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. If it looks dry, add a splash of broth before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is highly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand.

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.

If you love spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also give it a little kick.

Looking for a veggie boost? Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

For a creamy twist, mix in a can of cream of mushroom soup or sour cream before serving. This gives the casserole a rich, velvety texture.

Want a smoky, BBQ-style version? Replace the tomato sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy, sweet twist.

No matter how you customize it, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch it become a new family favorite!

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