Description
Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole is one of those dishes that brings warmth and comfort straight to the table. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and requires minimal hands-on effort thanks to the magic of slow cooking. This casserole combines tender ground beef, creamy potatoes, and savory beans, all topped off with melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this is a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
The name “Cowboy Casserole” conjures up images of hearty meals around a campfire, making it a dish that feels both rustic and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that sticks to your ribs—ideal for when you need something that’s both filling and delicious. If you’ve got a slow cooker and a little patience, this casserole will reward you with a rich, flavorful dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (about 3 medium-sized potatoes)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. As the beef starts to cook, break it up with a spoon or spatula so it cooks evenly. Once it’s mostly browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic, continuing to cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Drain any excess fat from the skillet before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Now comes the fun part—layering all the tasty ingredients! Start by placing half of the diced potatoes at the bottom of your 6-quart crock pot. Next, add half of the browned beef mixture, followed by half of the kidney beans and diced tomatoes. Repeat the process with the remaining half of each ingredient, creating layers that will cook together beautifully over the next few hours.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well combined. Pour this creamy sauce evenly over the layered ingredients in your crock pot, ensuring everything is well-covered. This will bring the flavors together and keep the casserole moist as it cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover your crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. As the casserole cooks, the potatoes will become tender, and all the flavors will meld together into a deliciously hearty meal.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
About 30 minutes before the casserole is done cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Put the lid back on and let the cheese melt to gooey perfection. This cheesy topping adds the finishing touch to your casserole.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked through, it’s time to serve! Spoon the casserole onto plates or into bowls and garnish each serving with a handful of chopped green onions for a fresh, flavorful bite. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Leftover Cowboy Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s also delicious with a side of cornbread!