This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty dish packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and topped with cheesy goodness. Perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving comfort food!
What I love most is how easy it is! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Plus, it’s a real crowd-pleaser—who can resist that cheesy topping? 🧀
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (or Turkey): Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but turkey is leaner and still tasty. You could also use chicken or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Kidney Beans: Kidney beans add protein and texture. If you don’t have them, black beans or pinto beans make great substitutes and work well in this dish.
Diced Tomatoes: Use whatever diced tomatoes you have on hand. If you’re looking for a kick, choose those with green chilies included!
Frozen Hash Browns: These save time, but fresh diced potatoes are great too. Just par-cook them to ensure they cook well in the slow cooker.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice flavor, but Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can also be used for a different spin. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese shreds.
How Do I Brown the Meat Without Overcooking It?
Browning meat is key to locking in flavor. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- If using turkey, be cautious as it cooks faster; keep an eye on it.
- Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown in batches if you need to for evenly cooked meat!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (or diced potatoes)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 15 minutes to prep and then either 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s a simple, set-it-and-forget-it type of dish, perfect for a cozy meal at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s nicely browned. After it’s cooked, drain any excess fat and then transfer the meat into your slow cooker. This will add great flavor to your casserole!
2. Mix in the Ingredients:
Next, in the slow cooker, add the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with all their juices), frozen hash browns, diced onion, and minced garlic. Take a moment to enjoy the colorful mixture! Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix those spices throughout the casserole. This will bring all the flavors to life!
4. Cook It Slow:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. Choose low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours—whichever fits your schedule best. Just let it slow cook until everything is hot and delicious!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it again so the cheese can melt beautifully over your hearty dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooking is complete, dish up your Cowboy Casserole while it’s hot. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Grab a spoon and dig into your delicious, warming meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will keep the casserole lighter. Just follow the same instructions, and be sure to brown the turkey until it’s fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker.
What If I Don’t Have Frozen Hash Browns?
No problem! You can use diced fresh or frozen potatoes instead. If using fresh, peel and chop them into small pieces, and you may want to pre-cook them for about 5-10 minutes to ensure they cook through in the slow cooker.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this casserole the night before! Just follow the recipe up to step 3, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, transfer it to the slow cooker and cook as directed. You might need to add a little extra cooking time if it’s starting from a cold temperature.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
