Description
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy days. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, kidney beans, corn, and a blend of spices, it simmers slowly to develop rich flavors. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and optionally served with sour cream, this comforting casserole is ideal for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Topping
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Drain the excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, frozen corn, and beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices throughout the casserole.
- Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are fork tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover again and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of beef broth slightly.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Adjust the chili powder and paprika according to your preferred spice level.
- Ensure potatoes are diced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
