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“A slow cooker cowboy casserole with ground beef, beans, potatoes, corn, and melted cheese served hot.”

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe – Hearty Family Dinner Idea

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, beans, corn, and topped with melted cheese, it’s a hearty one-pot meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. Easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy, this cowboy casserole is a rustic classic you’ll want to make again and again.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 7 hours
Course Family Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine American-Inspired, Rustic Comfort Food
Servings 8 portions
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
  • Skillet (for browning beef)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (or chuck cubes)
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 cups diced potatoes or frozen hash browns
  • 1 can kidney beans (drained)
  • 1 can pinto or baked beans
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup (optional for creaminess)
  • 1 cup beef stock
  • 1 tsp paprika or chili powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese
  • Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Brown Beef: In a skillet, cook beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Layer Ingredients: Place beef mixture at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add beans, potatoes, and diced tomatoes. Pour in soup (if using) and beef stock. Sprinkle seasoning.
  • Top with Cheese: Add half the cheese over the layers. Reserve the rest for finishing.
  • Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Avoid stirring to keep layers intact.
  • Finish: In the last 15 minutes, sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Cover until melted.
  • Serve: Garnish with parsley or green onions. Pair with cornbread and salad.

Notes

  • Pro Tip: Layer ingredients carefully to prevent soggy textures.
  • Variations: Try Tex-Mex with jalapeños and taco seasoning, or swap beef for turkey.
  • Storage: Keeps 3–4 days refrigerated; freeze portions up to 2 months. Reheat gently in oven.
  • Serving Idea: Ideal for potlucks, cozy winter nights, or summer cookouts with iced tea.
Keyword cheesy potato casserole, cowboy casserole, hearty family meal, slow cooker beef casserole