If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal effort, then Cowboy Casserole is your answer.

This one-pot dish is perfect for busy nights, making it an ideal candidate for your slow cooker.

Why Make This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is not only delicious, but it’s also super easy to throw together. With a blend of beans, potatoes, and ground beef, it’s a well-rounded meal that will satisfy your family and keep everyone coming back for seconds.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups diced potatoes (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the browned beef, kidney beans, black beans, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
4. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy your hearty cowboy casserole!

Prep Time and Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 6-8 hours to cook (or 3-4 hours on high), making a total of approximately 6-8 hours depending on your cooking method. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 350 calories, 25g of protein, and 15g of fat.

How to Serve Cowboy Casserole

Serve your Cowboy Casserole warm directly from the slow cooker. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some warm, crusty bread to mop up all the delicious juices.

How to Store Cowboy Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cowboy Casserole

• For added flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic with the beef.
• Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Customize the recipe by adding other vegetables, like corn or bell peppers.

Health and Benefits of This Recipe

This recipe is packed with protein thanks to the beans and ground beef, making it a filling meal. The beans also provide fiber, which is great for digestion. The inclusion of potatoes adds healthy carbohydrates to fuel your day, while tomatoes offer vitamins A and C.

Variation (If Any)

You can make this Cowboy Casserole vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding extra beans or lentils instead. It will still be hearty and satisfying!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
   Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes to save time!

   
   

2. Is this recipe spicy?
   The diced tomatoes with green chilies can add some heat, but you can choose mild versions or omit them if you prefer a milder dish.

   
   

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

   
   

4. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
   You can create a homemade version with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.

   
   

5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers.

   
   

6. How do I make it dairy-free?
   Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

   
   

7. Can I cook it on the stovetop?
   Yes, cook over medium heat until all ingredients are heated through and the potatoes are tender.

   
   

Enjoy your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole!