Description
There’s something magical about gathering around the dinner table with a hearty, slow-cooked meal that feels like a warm hug. The Crockpot Cowboy Casserole is one of those recipes that transports you to a cozy family evening, where the rich, savory aroma fills your home and promises a meal packed with flavor and nostalgia.
This dish is inspired by the robust, one-pot meals of cowboys who needed a filling and nourishing dinner after long days on the range. Over time, this humble meal has evolved into a crowd-pleasing comfort food that brings people together. Whether it’s a chilly autumn night, a relaxed family dinner, or a meal-prep favorite, this casserole is a treasure. Its tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, creamy cheese, and perfectly spiced veggies make it irresistible. The best part? It’s prepared in a slow cooker, so you can enjoy all the benefits of a home-cooked meal with minimal effort.
Let’s dive into the details of this dish that will soon become a family favorite in your home, just like it has in mine.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Beef sausage: 1 pound, ground
- Yellow onion: 1 cup, finely diced
- Baby red potatoes: 1 pound, thinly sliced
- Green bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Frozen corn: 1½ cups
- Kidney beans: 1 can (14.5 ounces), drained and rinsed
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces), undrained
- Garlic: 2 teaspoons, minced
- Chili powder: ½ teaspoon
- Colby Jack cheese: 1 cup, shredded
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sausage and Onion
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef sausage and diced onion. Sauté the mixture, breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and fully cooked. The onions should turn translucent, releasing their natural sweetness into the dish. This step sets the foundation for the casserole’s flavor, so take your time to ensure the sausage is well-browned.
2. Assemble in the Crockpot
Transfer the sausage and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Add the thinly sliced baby red potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed for consistent cooking. Next, toss in the chopped green bell pepper, frozen corn, kidney beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), minced garlic, and chili powder. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring that the potatoes are well-coated and submerged in the flavorful mix.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the lid on your slow cooker and cook on high for 2-4 hours, or on low for 4-6 hours. The key is to let the potatoes soften and absorb the savory juices. Once they are fork-tender, your casserole is ready for the final touch.
4. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese generously over the top of the cooked casserole. Cover the slow cooker again and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer. The sight of bubbly, golden cheese is guaranteed to make your mouth water!
5. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop generous portions into bowls or onto plates and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an added burst of flavor and color. Each bite is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and hearty goodness.
Notes
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
- Freezing Instructions: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.