Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I really enjoy how simple this casserole is to prepare—just a bit of browning and chopping, and the slow cooker does the rest. The combination of beef, potatoes, beans, and corn gives it a satisfying, stick-to-your-ribs quality. I like that it’s a full meal in one dish, with protein, veggies, and starch all layered together. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, which makes it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
4 cups potatoes, chopped (Russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Sour cream and chopped chives (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s cooked through, then I drain off any excess fat.

2. I chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces to make sure they cook evenly in the slow cooker.

3. I layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, starting with the potatoes at the bottom. Then I add the browned ground beef, followed by the beans and corn.

4. I pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. I repeat the layers if needed, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

6. I cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

7. About 30 minutes before it’s done, I sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt into the casserole.

8. When serving, I like to add a spoonful of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives for a fresh touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 hearty servings. It takes around 15 minutes of prep time and 6 hours of slow cooking, for a total time of about 6 hours and 15 minutes. Each serving is roughly 350 calories, making it a satisfying and balanced meal for any day of the week.

Variations

I sometimes switch up the ingredients depending on what I have. Ground turkey or sausage works great in place of beef. For extra flavor, I’ve added diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. If I want a bit more heat, I stir in a dash of chili powder or cayenne. For a vegetarian version, I skip the meat entirely and double up on beans and corn.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I usually warm portions in the microwave or oven until hot. The flavors deepen overnight, so I often find it even tastier the next day. If I freeze leftovers, I make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. To keep the cheese fresh, I like to add a new sprinkle of shredded cheese after reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often brown the beef and chop the potatoes a day ahead. In the morning, I just assemble everything in the slow cooker and let it cook throughout the day.

What type of potatoes work best?

I like using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes because they hold up well during long cooking times and become tender without falling apart.

Can I use canned potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, if I’m short on time, I use drained canned potatoes. I just reduce the cooking time slightly since they’re already cooked.

Can I make this casserole without cheese?

Absolutely. The casserole is flavorful on its own, but if I skip the cheese, I sometimes add a little extra smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

How can I thicken the casserole if it’s too saucy?

If the mixture seems too thin, I leave the lid off the slow cooker for the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the excess liquid to evaporate and helps the casserole thicken up nicely.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is one of my favorite set-it-and-forget-it meals. It’s hearty, flavorful, and full of down-home comfort. I love how it makes the kitchen smell amazing all day while it cooks, and when it’s ready, it’s a complete meal in one dish. Whether I’m feeding family or planning ahead for the week, this casserole never disappoints.