This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is pure comfort food! It’s packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and plenty of cheese, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
I love how it practically cooks itself while I relax. Just toss everything in, set it, and come back to a warm, hearty meal. Perfect for those busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of your casserole. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or ground chicken works nicely too. For a plant-based meal, consider using lentils or a meat substitute.
Beans: Black and pinto beans add texture and protein. If you’re short on one type, feel free to use another can of beans—kidney or white beans are great alternatives!
Diced Tomatoes: I use tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor. If you want less heat, opt for plain diced tomatoes or even a can of tomato sauce.
Salsa: It adds a zesty kick! You can swap it for picante sauce, or if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade salsa if you have it. Just tailor the spice level to your taste.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack create a nice melty topping. Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese like Colby Jack or pepper jack for some heat!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking the ground beef well is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the beef, creating a nice brown crust.
- Breaking it apart as it cooks will help it brown evenly. Use a wooden spoon to stir.
- Once it’s all browned and no pink remains, drain excess fat to prevent a greasy dish.
Taking these steps ensures your casserole is delicious without being oily!
How Can I Enhance the Flavors?
To really take this casserole up a notch, consider these tips:
- Let your spices like chili powder and cumin bloom for a minute in the skillet before adding other ingredients; this helps release their full flavor.
- Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can deepen the flavor profile.
Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning to your taste—this dish is all about making it yours!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g. Rotel)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, sour cream, chopped cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy slow cooker cowboy casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you let it cook in the slow cooker for 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high. So in total, you can have a delicious meal ready in just under 7 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Transfer to the Slow Cooker:
Take the cooked beef mixture and carefully transfer it to the slow cooker. This is where all the magic happens!
3. Add the Beans and Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add the rest of the ingredients! Pour in the black beans, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
4. Let it Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Just let it do its thing until it’s heated through and the flavors meld together.
5. Add the Cheese:
When you’re about 15 minutes away from serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and gooey!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the cowboy casserole hot, adding your favorite toppings like sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, sour cream, or cilantro to make it even more delicious!
This hearty slow cooker cowboy casserole is easy to assemble and delivers warm, comforting flavors with minimal effort. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that it may need a little more seasoning to enhance the flavor, so feel free to add a pinch more of your spices!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with extra beans or a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled veggie burgers. It will still be hearty and satisfying!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Casserole?
There are plenty of delicious options! Besides the listed toppings like sliced jalapeños and chopped green onions, you can also add sour cream, avocado slices, or even a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor!
