why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together classic flavors in a simple way. It is perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of ground beef, beans, cheese, and potatoes makes it filling and delicious. Plus, it cooks in a slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it!
how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Making Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is easy and requires minimal effort. You’ll just need to prepare a few ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work. Here’s how to make this tasty dish step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 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 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups sliced potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)
Directions:
- Gather all ingredients.
- Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Rinse and drain canned beans to reduce salt.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Layer in slow cooker: potatoes, beef, vegetables, and beans.
- Mix cream, broth, and spices; pour over layers.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese; cover until melted.
how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
To serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole, simply scoop out a portion into a bowl. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, sour cream, or hot sauce if you like. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Leftover Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Feel free to add more vegetables to the casserole for extra nutrition. Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can work great.
- If you like it spicy, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy diced tomatoes.
- To make it healthier, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- For a creamier texture, you can add more milk or even some cream cheese to the mix.
variation
You can easily customize this casserole by using different types of beans or cheese. Try black beans instead of kidney beans or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile. Additionally, you could use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on the classic.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the ground beef and use lentils or mushrooms to replace the meat.
Can I cook it on high instead of low?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours instead of 6-8 hours.
Is it ok to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you should slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly and thoroughly.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all ingredients.
- Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Rinse and drain canned beans to reduce salt.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Layer in slow cooker: potatoes, beef, vegetables, and beans.
- Mix cream, broth, and spices; pour over the layers.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top; cover until melted.