This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a cozy meal packed with hearty ingredients like ground beef, beans, and potatoes. It’s super simple to make and will warm you right up!
This dish is perfect for busy days since you just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Plus, it’s always a hit with the family! Who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This ingredient gives the casserole its hearty flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you have kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas on hand, feel free to use them instead.
Corn: Canned corn is super easy, but frozen corn works great too! If you want to make it dairy-free, ensure your barbecue sauce has no dairy.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice here. You can also use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if you need a substitute.
Potatoes: I use regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes would be delicious for a twist! Just slice them thin so they cook at the same speed.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Layering in My Casserole?
Layering is key to ensuring all ingredients cook evenly and flavors meld together. Start by placing half of the potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker to create a solid base.
- Follow your layering with half of the beef and onion mixture. It’s essential to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Keep adding black beans, corn, and tomatoes in separate layers, and top with cheese.
- Repeat these layers and finish with the barbecue sauce. This helps flavor every bite, and the cheese will melt beautifully on top!
By layering correctly, each bite will be full of tasty goodness! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, extra shredded cheese, sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will cook for 6 to 7 hours on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high in the slow cooker. After a little prep time, you can relax and let the slow cooker do the work for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is nice and brown, and the onion is soft. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your casserole isn’t too greasy.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Now it’s time to build your casserole! Take your slow cooker and layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. This will give the casserole a nice base.
3. Add Ground Beef Mixture:
Spread half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the layer of potatoes. This adds a hearty element to your dish.
4. Layer the Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes:
Add half of the black beans, followed by the corn, and then the diced tomatoes with green chilies, one layer at a time. Each layer builds flavor and texture!
5. Sprinkle with Cheese:
Next, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the layers you just added. Cheese makes everything better!
6. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat all the previous layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, beans, corn, tomatoes, and cheese. The more layers, the more delicious it will be!
7. Add Seasonings and Sauce:
Drizzle the barbecue sauce evenly over the top of everything. Then, sprinkle the chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to add some extra flavor.
8. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. If you’re cooking on low, let it go for 6-7 hours or 3-4 hours on high. It’s ready when the potatoes are tender!
9. Add Toppings:
When you’re ready to serve, you can top it with sliced green onions, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess!
10. Enjoy!
Serve your warm, delicious Cowboy Casserole to family and friends. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef. You could also try diced ham or sausage for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Casserole?
This casserole is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or some crusty rolls to balance out the meal!
