This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty dish packed with ground beef, beans, and flavorful spices. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Using a slow cooker makes it simple. Just toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Frozen Diced Potatoes: These handy potatoes cut down prep time. Fresh potatoes work too; just peel and cube them into small pieces for even cooking. Sweet potatoes could also be a great twist!
Pinto Beans: You can use kidney beans or black beans if that’s what you have. They’ll add a slightly different flavor but will still keep the dish hearty and filling.
Diced Tomatoes: If you’re out of canned tomatoes, you can use fresh ones (just chop them finely) or canned tomato sauce for a smoother texture.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is great, you can mix it up with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or pepper jack if you like some heat. Vegan cheese is also an option for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Ensure the Potatoes are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the potatoes tender is key in this recipe. To do this, it’s crucial to size them right. If you’re using fresh potatoes, make sure to cut them into small cubes, so they cook evenly. Whether frozen or fresh, keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if you’re using a high setting.
- Par-cooking fresh potatoes by boiling them for a few minutes can help them cook properly in the slow cooker.
- Stir the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure everything blends well and cooks evenly.
- Add the cheese about 30 minutes before the end to let it melt beautifully without overdoing it.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (about 450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen diced potatoes (or fresh potatoes, cubed)
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
For the Seasoning:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will cook in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. A great option for a busy day—you can set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion turns translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This gives a nice flavor to your meat mixture!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, mix together the cooked ground beef mixture, frozen diced potatoes, pinto beans, and the can of diced tomatoes (make sure to include the juices!). Stir it all together to combine evenly.
3. Add Seasonings:
Now it’s time to spice things up! Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Give it a good stir to ensure the seasonings are well mixed through the casserole.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The casserole is ready when the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
5. Add Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it up again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Ah, the cheesy goodness!
6. Serve with Flair:
Once it’s all done cooking, give it a gentle stir. Just before serving, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a splash of color and flavor. Your hearty cowboy casserole is ready to enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh potatoes, peel and cube them into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. They may need a little longer to cook, so ensure your cooking time is adjusted to around 7-9 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high, or until they are tender.
What Can I Substitute for Pinto Beans?
No problem! If you don’t have pinto beans, feel free to substitute with black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Just make sure to drain and rinse them to lessen the sodium content before adding them to your casserole!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months! To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of water if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients for a hearty twist on the classic recipe!
