This easy cowboy casserole is a hearty dish with ground beef, beans, corn, and a cheesy topping. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic!
You’ll love how it fills your home with a warm, inviting scent. Plus, it’s one of those meals where leftovers taste even better—if there are any left! 😂
I enjoy serving this with a side of cornbread for the perfect cozy dinner. It’s a simple way to feed the whole family without spending hours in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. If you’re vegetarian, try using black bean crumbles or a mix of lentils and mushrooms.
Black Beans: These are great for adding protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, feel free to swap them for pinto beans or kidney beans. Canned versions are super easy, but you can also use cooked dried beans if you have them!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings a sharp and rich flavor. You could easily substitute it with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese for that creamy top. If you like a bit of spice, pepper jack cheese is also a great option.
Onion: I like using yellow onions for their sweetness, but you can use red onions for a sharper taste or shallots for something milder. If you’re avoiding onions, leeks are a nice alternative!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Ground Beef?
To enhance the flavor of your ground beef, browning it with onion in a skillet is key. Here’s a simple technique:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and onion, breaking the meat apart with a spatula.
- Cook until the beef is browned—and make sure the onion is soft, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t rush this step, as it adds a ton of flavor to your casserole!
Remember to drain excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
Why Is Layering Important When Cooking in a Slow Cooker?
Layering your ingredients ensures even cooking and flavor distribution. Here’s what to do:
- Start with the ground beef mixture at the bottom; it acts as a base.
- Follow with the canned goods—tomatoes, beans, and corn—on top.
- This prevents anything from sticking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Trust me, taking a few minutes to layer correctly will make a big difference in taste! Enjoy cooking your casserole!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or green chilies for spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cowboy casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You will need to cook it in your slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, making it perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft—about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat afterward!
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Once your beef and onions are cooked, transfer them to the slow cooker. Make sure to scrape all those tasty bits in to keep the flavor!
3. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Add the remaining ingredients: black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir so that all the ingredients mix well together.
4. Cook Everything:
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 4-6 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours. The longer, low-and-slow method will let those flavors blend beautifully!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your casserole. Cover again to let the cheese melt perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is heated and the cheese is gooey, it’s time to serve! You can top your cowboy casserole with jalapeños or green chilies for an extra kick if you want. This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy cowboy casserole made effortlessly in your slow cooker!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and it’ll taste delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative, like lentils or black bean crumbles. You can also add more beans or some chopped veggies for extra texture and flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This casserole is very versatile. Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients before cooking!
