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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

This hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole combines ground beef, beans, potatoes, and cheese into a flavorful one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days, this easy slow cooker recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum comfort with every bite.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time6 hours
Total Time6 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cowboy casserole, easy comfort food, ground beef casserole, one-pot meal, slow cooker casserole
Servings: 6
Calories: 475kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 10.75 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups sliced potatoes about 1.5 pounds
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or your preference

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
  • Assemble in the Slow Cooker
  • Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, frozen corn, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Add the Potatoes

  • Layer the sliced potatoes evenly over the beef mixture, ensuring they are well coated in the sauce.

Cook

    Cover the slow cooker and cook:

    • Low: 6–7 hours
    • High: 3–4 hours
    • Cook until the potatoes are tender.

    Add the Cheese

    • Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the casserole during the last 20 minutes of cooking. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.

    Serve

    • Spoon the casserole into bowls or plates and serve warm.

    Notes

    Cheese Options: Cheddar is a great choice, but a cheese blend or pepper jack can add extra flavor.
    Potato Choices: Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes all work well. Peeling is optional based on your preference.
    Make Ahead: Brown the beef and chop the vegetables the night before to save time.
    Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
    Variations: Add green beans, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.