This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is hearty and delicious! It combines ground beef, beans, corn, and topped with cheesy goodness. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how it all cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s like a big hug in a bowl—who doesn’t want that? 🤗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the casserole. You can swap it for turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use lentils for a vegetarian version!
Beans: Black and pinto beans are great for protein and fiber. If you’re short on one of them, feel free to use kidney beans or chickpeas instead. They’ll still work well in this dish.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack add creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, lower-fat cheese can work. Vegan cheese is an option for a dairy-free meal.
Taco Seasoning: This adds a ton of flavor! If you prefer, you can use homemade seasoning with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder for a fresher taste.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Stays Flavorful and Not Dry?
To keep your casserole moist and bursting with flavor, here are a few tips:
- Don’t skip the beef broth. It helps keep everything juicy.
- Stir well after adding all ingredients to make sure flavors mix together.
- Cover it tightly while cooking. This helps trap steam, which keeps your casserole moist.
- Adding cheese towards the end keeps it melty and prevents drying out.
These steps will ensure your Cowboy Casserole is flavorful and comforting every time you make it!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then 4 to 6 hours of cooking time on low, or 2 to 3 hours on high. So, it’s a great dish to toss together in the morning and let it cook while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, stirring occasionally. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy.
2. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chilies, taco seasoning, and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully!
4. Melt the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt into the warm casserole.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, give the casserole a gentle stir to distribute the cheese. Serve hot, garnished with any optional toppings you like, such as sliced jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or some crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
Enjoy every comforting and cheesy bite of your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work perfectly as a leaner alternative. Just keep the cooking time the same, and you’ll have a delicious, healthier casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before! Just store the mixture in the fridge and then transfer it to the slow cooker in the morning to cook. It will save you time and still taste great!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze the Cowboy Casserole?
Definitely! This casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
