Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a fantastic meal for busy families or anyone who loves a hearty, filling dish without a lot of hassle. This recipe brings together a mix of flavors and textures, including rich ground beef, nutritious beans, and creamy potatoes, all topped with melted cheese. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld perfectly, resulting in a warm and comforting casserole that is ideal for any day of the week.

how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Ingredients :

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onions
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 (16-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, undrained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with fire roasted hatch chilies, with juice
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder
• 1½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced about ⅛ inch thick
• 1¼ cups Colby and Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded

Directions :

1. Lightly spray your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound ground beef, 1 cup diced onions, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet and transfer the cooked mixture to the prepared crockpot.
4. Add the following to the crockpot:

• 16 oz undrained kidney beans
• 14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes with juice
• 10 oz diced tomatoes with chilies and juice
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder

1. Stir everything together until well combined.
2. Remove 1½ cups of the meat mixture and set it aside.
3. Layer or wedge 1½ pounds of sliced Yukon Gold potatoes into the crockpot. Sprinkle the reserved meat mixture evenly over the top.
4. Cover and cook:

• On high for 5 hours
• Or on low for 7 hours

1. Before serving, sprinkle 1¼ cups shredded Colby and Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt completely.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

You can serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole straight from the crockpot. It goes well with a side salad or some warm bread. For an extra kick, consider adding hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top!

how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

• For a spicier version, add extra chipotle powder or diced jalapeños.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to make it leaner.
• Ensure you slice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• If you want to add more vegetables, consider adding bell peppers or zucchini.

variation

You can customize this recipe by using different types of beans, like black beans or pinto beans. You could also swap the Yukon Gold potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor and nutritional profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen ground beef?

A: Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but make sure to thaw it before browning it in the skillet.

Q: Is it possible to make this casserole in the oven?

A: Yes, you can make this casserole in a baking dish. Layer the ingredients and bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?

A: Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole after it’s cooked. Just let it cool, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

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