Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Rooted in traditional Midwestern cooking, this cozy dish is packed with tender ground beef, sliced potatoes, beans, corn, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.
Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this dump-and-go crockpot dinner delivers bold, savory flavors with minimal effort. Just load up your slow cooker, set it, and come back to a warm, satisfying dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Casserole
- Effortless One-Pot Meal – Just brown the beef, then toss everything into your slow cooker. Let it simmer to perfection while you take care of your day.
- Hearty & Filling – Packed with protein, veggies, and potatoes, it’s a complete meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- Family-Friendly – Mild, savory flavors make this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
- Customizable – Easy to adjust with your favorite veggies, different proteins, or spicy additions.
- Budget-Conscious – Uses simple pantry staples that are easy on your wallet.
- Great for Leftovers – The flavors only get better the next day, making this a perfect meal prep recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this slow cooker classic:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Add to Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Add Potatoes
Layer in the sliced potatoes and stir to combine so they’re coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese
About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt into the casserole. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cowboy Casserole with:
- A crisp green salad for a fresh contrast
- Buttery cornbread for a sweet-savory combo
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrients and color
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap the meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.
- Change the beans: Pinto, black beans, or baked beans all work well.
- Try different potatoes: Sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or even cauliflower can be used.
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more color and nutrition.
Save It for Later!
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a warm, hearty, and reliable favorite that never disappoints. Just one bite and you’ll see why it’s a staple in so many homes!
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