This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty dish that’s packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and it cooks itself while you relax!
Who doesn’t love a meal that basically makes itself? Just toss everything in, set the timer, and enjoy the yummy smells. I usually serve it with some crusty bread for scooping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of the dish! Lean ground beef is great, but you can swap it for turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or mushrooms instead!
Kidney Beans: These beans add protein and texture. If you can’t find kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work just as well. Canned beans are so easy; just rinse and add!
Diced Tomatoes: I love using diced tomatoes because they add great flavor. If you’re looking for something different, crushed tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes can also work. Just be mindful of extra liquid!
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for this recipe. If you’re avoiding carbs, cauliflower can be an excellent substitute—just chop it small so it cooks through.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a delicious topping. You can use any cheese you like such as Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese for a lighter option!
How Do I Brown Meat Without It Being Greasy?
Getting that perfect browned ground beef without excess grease is important. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a skillet over medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. This helps it brown nicely.
- Make sure to drain the excess fat after browning; this keeps your casserole from being greasy.
- Don’t crowd the pan; if you have a lot of meat, cook in batches for the best results.
Following these steps will ensure deliciously browned beef that adds great flavor to your casserole!
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, undrained
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you will need to wait for it to cook. You can set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, mix in the browned ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with all their juices), diced potatoes, and diced onion. This will create a hearty base for the casserole.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. After mixing well, pour this flavorful mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Stir and Cook:
Gently stir everything together until it’s well combined. Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and everything is nice and warm.
5. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt—it will be so gooey and delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, garnish your casserole with fresh parsley for a nice pop of color. Serve it hot and enjoy a comforting meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter option. Just be aware that the cooking times may vary slightly depending on the protein you choose, so ensure it’s fully cooked before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth. If you don’t have any broth, just use water, but you might want to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor, adding a bit more salt or spices as needed.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist if necessary.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into small, even pieces so they cook thoroughly in the slow cooker!
