cowboy slow cooker casserole

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Try this hearty cowboy slow cooker casserole for a delicious, easy-to-make meal packed with flavor. Perfect for busy nights and family dinners!

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6 15

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ground Beef 1 lb: This is the heart of your casserole. Ground beef adds flavor and richness, giving your casserole that classic, comforting texture. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
Canned Black Beans 1 can, drained and rinsed: A perfect addition for fiber and protein, black beans bring a creamy texture and earthy flavor. Feel free to swap them for kidney beans or pinto beans based on your preference.
Canned Corn 1 can, drained: Sweet corn adds a touch of natural sweetness and crunch that balances the savory flavors of the casserole.
Diced Tomatoes 1 can, undrained: These juicy tomatoes help create a saucy base for the casserole and enhance the overall richness of the dish.
Bell Peppers 1, chopped: Red or green bell peppers offer a burst of color and sweetness. They also contribute vitamins and nutrients, making the dish a healthier choice.
Yellow Onion 1, diced: A flavorful base ingredient that adds depth to the overall taste profile.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese 1 ½ cups: The perfect finishing touch to this casserole, melted cheddar adds a creamy, melty, and savory layer on top. If you want to go dairy-free, try vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

Chili Powder 2 tablespoons: For that signature Tex-Mex kick. This spice blend gives your casserole warmth and a bit of heat. Adjust based on your preferred spice level.
Garlic Powder 1 teaspoon: Adds an aromatic, savory flavor that complements the rest of the ingredients.
Cumin 1 teaspoon: A spice that brings a slight smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing the savory profile.
Salt & Black Pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that help balance and bring out the flavors of the dish.

First, gather all the ingredients you’ll need. This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, so make sure everything is prepped and ready to go. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get organized:
Ground beef or turkey (whichever you prefer)
Beans, like kidney, black, or pinto beans
Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Diced tomatoes
Spices and seasonings like chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder
Cheddar cheese for that melty topping
Frozen hash browns to create that comforting casserole base

Begin by browning the ground meat in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir it occasionally to break it apart and ensure it cooks evenly. This is a great time to add a pinch of salt and pepper to season the meat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer it to the slow cooker.

To the slow cooker, add the beans, corn, diced tomatoes, spices, and hash browns. Stir well to combine. The spices are what really make this casserole burst with flavor, so don’t hesitate to adjust them to your taste! If you like it spicier, feel free to add a bit more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne pepper.

Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, satisfying dish that’s full of comfort. If you're in a hurry, you can cook it on high for about 2-3 hours, but the low setting gives the best results. During this time, feel free to check in on it and stir occasionally.

Once the casserole is cooked through, it’s time for the final step: adding cheese. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar on top of the casserole, then let it sit for about 10 minutes with the lid on to allow the cheese to melt into that gooey, delicious topping.

Once the cheese is perfectly melted, your cowboy slow cooker casserole is ready to be served! Scoop out hearty portions and watch everyone dig in with smiles on their faces.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Iron: 15%

Keyword Cowboy Slow Cooker Casserole, Slow Cooker Casserole