Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and vegetables. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy days, as it simmers in your slow cooker and is ready to serve when you are. Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious casserole:
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 1/2 cups frozen hash browns or diced potatoes (can use fresh, too)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbles (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
- In the slow cooker, add the browned beef and onion mixture. Then, add the corn, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Gently fold in the frozen hash browns (or diced potatoes). Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Cook the Casserole:
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly and hot.
4. Add Optional Toppings:
- If you’re using cooked bacon, sprinkle the bacon crumbles over the casserole in the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow them to heat through.
5. Serve:
- Once cooked, serve the cowboy casserole with a side salad or crusty bread for a full meal. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for additional flavor and color.
- Cheese Variations: If you like, swap out cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend for a different flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder if you want a bit of heat.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. You can make a double batch and freeze half for a later meal. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy, easy dinner. Enjoy! 🍲🧀
