This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is warm, hearty, and made with ground beef, beans, and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal without the fuss!
Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I love how it smells up the house—who doesn’t enjoy that homey vibe? Plus, leftovers taste even better! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of your casserole. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or crumbled tofu.
Black Beans & Kidney Beans: Both add protein and fiber. If you don’t have these beans, you can use pinto or chickpeas. Canned beans save time, but dried beans are a great alternative if you soak and cook them ahead.
Barbecue Sauce: This brings a sweet and tangy flavor. You can substitute it with salsa for a spicier kick or use a homemade BBQ sauce for a fresh taste. Adjust based on your spice preference!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its punchy flavor, but you can swap this for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra heat. Vegan cheese works well, too, if you’re keeping it plant-based.
How Do You Brown Ground Beef Perfectly?
Browned beef adds depth and flavor to your casserole, and getting it right is crucial. Here’s how:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil if your beef is lean.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic when the oil is hot. Cook until the onions soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add the ground beef in chunks, breaking it apart as it cooks. Don’t rush this; let it brown evenly for about 6-8 minutes. A little color on the meat adds lots of flavor!
- Drain any extra fat before adding it to your slow cooker.
Taking your time here is worth it for the rich flavor in your casserole!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and between 4 to 6 hours to cook on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. You’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from being greasy.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Now, add in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juices), barbecue sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are mixed well.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Let the slow cooker do its magic while you relax or get some other things done!
4. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover it again and allow the cheese to melt—this is when your kitchen starts smelling amazing!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s all melted and bubbly, serve your cowboy casserole warm. Don’t forget to offer optional toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños for everyone to customize their servings!
Dig in and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that required little effort but yields big flavor!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll end up with a delicious casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils, quinoa, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor!
What Should I Do With Leftover Casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Freeze The Cowboy Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
