This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It’s packed with flavors from ground beef, corn, and plenty of cheese!
You just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. I love coming home to a delicious meal that smells amazing. Who can say no to cheese? 🧀
This casserole is great for busy days since it practically cooks itself. Serve it with some bread, and you’re all set for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds protein and richness. If you’re looking for leaner options, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, swap in black beans or lentils.
Black Beans: These offer fiber and texture. You can replace them with kidney beans or pinto beans if needed. Don’t forget to rinse them well to reduce the sodium!
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack bring creaminess. If you want a lighter option, consider reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative like vegan cheese.
Barbecue Sauce: This gives a nice smoky flavor. You can use homemade BBQ sauce or any store-bought brand. If you’re low on BBQ sauce, a mix of ketchup and a touch of Worcestershire sauce works well too.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef doesn’t have to be tricky! Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the pan. Cook until the beef is browned, making sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Drain the excess fat before adding seasonings to avoid a greasy final dish.
- Mix in your spices and stir well. This step enhances the flavors before layering it into the casserole.
Taking care with this step will make your casserole even more delicious!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup frozen hash brown potatoes, diced or shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks in the slow cooker for 4-5 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH. Perfect for a busy day—you can set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from being greasy.
2. Season the Beef:
Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors, letting the spices infuse the beef.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Spray the slow cooker insert with a little cooking spray to prevent sticking. Begin by layering the frozen hash brown potatoes evenly in the bottom.
4. Add the Beef Mixture and Other Ingredients:
Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture over the hash brown layer. Next, add the drained black beans, corn, and undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies evenly on top.
5. Drizzle with Barbecue Sauce:
Generously drizzle the barbecue sauce over everything to give it that smoky flavor. Don’t be shy with it!
6. Cook it Up:
Cover the slow cooker with a lid. Depending on how much time you have, cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until everything is heated through and the potatoes are tender.
7. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top. Cover again and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish with sliced jalapeños or chopped green onions for some extra flair. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious cowboy casserole with family and friends!
This recipe is a fantastic choice for an easy weeknight meal packed with hearty flavors that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be aware that it may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with an additional can of black beans or lentils. You can also add some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Peel and dice them into small cubes, then par-cook them in boiling water for about 5-10 minutes before layering them in the slow cooker. This helps ensure they cook through in the time allotted.
What Are the Best Storage Options for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for later—just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheat thoroughly before serving!
