Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

introduction

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is an easy, hearty one-pot meal built around seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes with green chiles, and potatoes. It simmers gently in a slow cooker until the flavors meld and the potatoes are tender, then finishes with melty cheese for a comforting, family-friendly dinner.

why make this recipe

• Minimal hands-on time: brown the beef, dump everything into the slow cooker, and walk away.
• Budget-friendly ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
• Flexible and forgiving — you can swap beans, use different cheeses, or add extra vegetables.
• Great for meal prep and potlucks because it stays warm and holds well.

how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker and add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning, diced potatoes (or frozen hash browns), salt, and pepper.
3. Stir well so ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and flavors are melded.
5. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheese and allow it to melt.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredients :

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 2 cups diced potatoes (or frozen hash browns)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, diced potatoes, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheese and allow it to melt.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

• Spoon into bowls and top with extra shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Serve with warm tortillas, cornbread, or tortilla chips for scooping.
• Add pickled jalapeños or avocado slices for contrast and freshness.

how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

• Refrigerator: cool to room temperature, transfer to airtight containers, and store for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: warm on the stove over low heat or microwave until heated through; add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.

tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

• Brown the beef well and drain fat to avoid a greasy final dish.
• Use frozen hash browns for convenience and consistent texture — no need to thaw.
• If you prefer a saucier casserole, add 1/2 cup beef broth or tomato sauce when combining ingredients.
• Taste and adjust seasoning near the end of cooking; taco seasoning packets vary in saltiness.
• For a richer flavor, stir in a bit of shredded cheddar at the start and again at the end.

variation (if any)

• Vegetarian: replace ground beef with extra beans, lentils, or a plant-based crumbles.
• Cheesy taco bake: stir in cream cheese or a can of Rotel for creamier texture.
• Spicy: use hot diced tomatoes, add cayenne or chipotle in adobo.
• Southwest twist: add bell peppers, onions, or a cup of cooked rice for bulk.

FAQ

Q: Can I skip browning the ground beef?
A: You can, but browning adds flavor and reduces excess grease. If you skip it, drain any fat before serving.

Q: Will the potatoes cook through in the slow cooker?
A: Yes, diced fresh potatoes or frozen hash browns cook through in the given times. Larger chunks may need longer.

Q: Can I make this on the stovetop?
A: Yes — simmer gently in a covered Dutch oven for 30–45 minutes until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

For a tested slow-cooker take on this cowboy-style casserole and additional serving ideas, see the original Crockpot Cowboy Casserole recipe on Chelsea’s Messy Apron: Crockpot Cowboy Casserole – Chelsea’s Messy Apron.