This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty dish packed with tasty ground beef, beans, corn, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for a cozy family meal!
It’s super easy to make—just toss everything in and let it cook. I love how it makes the house smell amazing while it bubbles away. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base protein for the casserole. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You could also go plant-based with lentils or a meat substitute like quinoa or black beans for a vegetarian meal.
Kidney Beans: These add both protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, black beans or pinto beans can work as great substitutes. You can even skip beans altogether for a meatier dish.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This brings creaminess to the dish. If you want to make it healthier, a homemade version using fresh mushrooms and broth is a good alternative. You can use cream of chicken soup or even vegetable broth for a dairy-free option.
Potatoes: They act as the hearty carbohydrate. I like using russets for their fluffiness, but you can use sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Cauliflower can be a good low-carb substitute if you’re watching carbs.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of heat.
How Can I Ensure the Potatoes Are Cooked to Perfection?
Cooking the potatoes right is essential for a tasty casserole. You want them tender but not mushy. Start with dicing them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Layer them carefully in the slow cooker so they touch the liquid for proper cooking.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Check for tenderness with a fork, especially if you’re using different potato types.
- Add cheese in the last 30 minutes to let it melt perfectly without overcooking the other ingredients.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 4-5 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Just a little time to prep, and then you can relax while it cooks to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside for later.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
In the slow cooker, add the cooked ground beef along with the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with all the juices), cream of mushroom soup, frozen corn, diced potatoes, and chopped onion. Sprinkle in the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir until everything is well combined.
3. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the potatoes to be nice and tender, so check them with a fork before your time is up!
4. Add the Cheese:
When there’s about 30 minutes left of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it again so the cheese can melt perfectly into the dish.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, give it a little stir and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Now, your delicious Cowboy Casserole is ready to serve! Dish it out and enjoy a hearty meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker. It may be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil while browning to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you need a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version with a roux (equal parts butter and flour) and add sautéed mushrooms. Another option is to blend some cooked mushrooms with cream for a similar texture and flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini! Just keep in mind that adding more ingredients might require an additional cooking time to ensure everything is tender. You may also need to adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors.
