Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and a hint of smoky bacon for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish requires minimal prep and rewards you with maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Just a little prep before letting your slow cooker work its magic.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup and all the flavors meld perfectly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Potatoes (cubed)
• Canned beans (e.g., kidney or pinto)
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• Onion (chopped)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. In the slow cooker, layer the cubed potatoes, cooked ground beef mixture, and beans.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup, mixing slightly to combine.
5. Top with cooked bacon and shredded cheese.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef and bacon for plant-based alternatives or additional beans and vegetables.
• Spicier Version: Add a diced jalapeño or use spicy diced tomatoes.
• Healthier Twist: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and low-fat cheese.
• Additional Veggies: Include bell peppers, carrots, or celery for extra nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes are a great substitute and will add a touch of sweetness to the dish.

2. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for browning the beef, then cook on high pressure for 25 minutes with a quick release.

3. Can I use canned corn in this recipe?

Absolutely! Add a can of drained corn for a sweet and crunchy addition.

4. What’s the best type of cheese for this casserole?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend also works well.

5. Can I skip the bacon?

Yes, but the bacon adds a smoky depth to the dish. You can use liquid smoke for a similar flavor.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to ensure it’s gluten-free.

7. Can I prep this recipe the night before?

Yes, assemble everything in the slow cooker, refrigerate overnight, and start cooking the next day.

8. What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A fresh green salad or cornbread complements this casserole perfectly.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, ensure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the extra ingredients.

10. How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix a slurry of cornstarch and water, then stir it into the casserole and let it thicken.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, flavorful meal that brings comfort to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it to your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed winner. Try out the variations to suit your taste, and enjoy the convenience of a slow cooker meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

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