This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is sure to please everyone. It combines beef, beans, corn, and cheesy goodness, all cooked to perfection in one pot!
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Plus, leftovers make an awesome lunch the next day—who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef is great for flavor, while ground turkey offers a leaner option. You can also try ground chicken or even plant-based substitutes if you’re looking for vegetarian options!
Pinto Beans: These beans add heartiness. If you don’t have pinto beans, black beans or kidney beans work well too. Just make sure to rinse them to keep the casserole from being too watery.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring moisture and flavor. If you want more freshness, you could use fresh tomatoes, but keep in mind they can make the dish a bit juicier.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes add creaminess. If you prefer a lower-carb option, cauliflower can be a great substitute. Just remember to adjust cooking time as it may cook faster.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is my favorite for its bold flavor! If you’re watching fat intake, you can opt for a low-fat cheese or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the calories.
How Can I Ensure the Potatoes are Tender?
To make sure the potatoes are tender in your casserole, even cooking is key. Here’s how to prepare them perfectly:
- Dice the potatoes into small, uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Layer the potatoes in the slow cooker after the meat, beans, and tomatoes. This way, they benefit from the moisture and flavors from above.
- Cooking on low for 6-8 hours is usually best to let the potatoes soften. If you’re crunched for time, the high setting for 3-4 hours will work just fine. Check for doneness with a fork!
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Casserole needs about 15 minutes of prep time and can cook in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Set it and forget it, and you’ll have a hearty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat once it’s cooked—this keeps the casserole nice and healthy!
2. Layer the Ingredients:
Grab your slow cooker and start layering. First, add the cooked ground meat. Then, add the drained and rinsed pinto beans, the can of diced tomatoes with their juicy goodness, the diced potatoes, and finally the chopped onion. Each layer adds flavor, so don’t skip anything!
3. Season the Mix:
Next, sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, chili powder (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper evenly over everything in the slow cooker. This is where the flavor magic happens—give it a little stir to mix it all together gently.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. You can let it go on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s done when the potatoes are tender and everything is bubbling nicely!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of your casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt into all that goodness. It will be ooey-gooey and delicious!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once the cooking time is up, give your casserole a little stir. Then, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm, and dig into your hearty Cowboy Casserole. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just use it in the same amount, and follow the cooking instructions as usual. It will make the casserole slightly lighter while still being delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Pinto Beans?
If you don’t have pinto beans, you can easily swap them out for black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Just make sure to drain and rinse whichever beans you choose before adding them to the slow cooker!
How Can I Modify Cooking Time if I’m Using Frozen Potatoes?
If you’re using frozen diced potatoes, you may need to extend the cooking time. Cook on low for about 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, checking for tenderness. Since they’re frozen, they may take a little longer to soften.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the casserole seems dry when reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
