This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy days! Packed with ground beef, corn, beans, and topped with creamy cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
I love how this meal cooks while I relax! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Plus, who can resist melty cheese? It’s a winner with the whole family! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this casserole! I usually use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken. They work well, but keep in mind the flavor might be milder.
Beans: Black beans add great texture and protein. If you want to use a different type, pinto or kidney beans can work just as well. Canned chickpeas are another healthy option for a different taste.
Corn: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch. If you’re out of canned corn, frozen corn can be substituted, and it’s just as easy! Don’t hesitate to add more or use different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds flavor and a bit of spice. If you prefer it mild, go for plain diced tomatoes and then add fresh jalapeños or your choice of hot sauce later.
How Do I Get the Beef Cooked Right for My Casserole?
Cooking the beef properly sets the base for your casserole. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef with the diced onion and garlic. Stir it occasionally until the meat is browned through and the onions become soft — about 6-8 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from being greasy!
- Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Make sure the beef has no pink spots when you’re finished cooking; this ensures it’s safe to eat.
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time where you’ll brown the beef and mix everything. After that, you’ll set your slow cooker for 4 to 6 hours on low, or 2 to 3 hours on high. When you serve, it will be warm, cheesy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened (about 6 to 8 minutes). Be sure to drain any excess fat before moving to the next step.
2. Combine in Slow Cooker:
Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and frozen mixed vegetables if you’re using them. Pour in the barbecue sauce and sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over everything. Stir well until all ingredients are combined.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This will let all those flavors meld together.
4. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, take off the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Put the lid back on and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve It Up:
Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, it’s time to serve! Garnish your Cowboy Casserole with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions if you like. Enjoy this hearty meal warm!
Feel free to get creative and add your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be aware that the flavor may be milder, so you might want to add an extra pinch of your favorite spices for depth.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils, quinoa, or additional beans. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance until the cooking step. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to cook!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, and enjoy your delicious cowboy casserole again!
