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Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for balance, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. I like using 80/20 beef for a little extra flavor without too much grease.
Kidney Beans: These beans add protein and texture, but feel free to swap in black beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have. Each variety gives a slightly different taste.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: This can bring a nice kick. If spice isn’t your thing, use regular diced tomatoes. You can also add some fresh chopped jalapeños for heat.
Potatoes: I love using russet potatoes, but Yukon Gold work well too. If you want a low-carb option, try cauliflower or a mix of sweet potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, swap for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra spice.
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking the ground beef right is key for a tasty casserole. When browning, watch for a few important steps:
- Use medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Break the beef apart as it cooks; it helps to brown evenly and makes for nice, bite-sized pieces.
- Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning to avoid a greasy casserole.
Tip: You can season the beef with a little salt and pepper while cooking for added flavor before mixing it into the slow cooker.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Casserole will take about 20 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart as it browns. This should take about 5-7 minutes. When it’s nicely browned, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, combine the browned beef with the rinsed kidney beans, diced tomatoes, frozen corn, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together until well combined.
3. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the potatoes to be tender, so check them as you approach the end of the cooking time.
4. Add the Cheese:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Close the lid again and let the cheese melt—this makes it all the more delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is cooked and the cheese has melted, garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Serve your warm, hearty Cowboy Casserole and enjoy a comforting meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will work well in this dish. Just follow the same steps for browning in the skillet until cooked through. It may have a slightly different flavor, but you’ll still have a hearty casserole!
How Do I Adjust Cooking Time for Fresh Potatoes?
If you’re using fresh potatoes, you can keep the cooking times the same. Make sure they’re cut into small, even pieces for consistent cooking. If they’re larger, you might need to extend the cooking time by an additional 30 minutes for them to become tender.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or mushrooms. Additionally, replace the beef broth with vegetable broth to keep all the flavors intact. The cooking time will remain the same!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
