Table of Contents
Looking for a filling and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for busy family dinners or easy meal prep? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole! This hearty one-pot meal is packed with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, beans, corn, and melted cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a delicious comfort food classic that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Potato Casserole Slow Cooker Recipe
- Effortless dump-and-go prep—just layer ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic.
- Packed with satisfying protein, veggies, and carbs for a balanced meal.
- Real comfort food that’s perfect for colder months or anytime you want warming, hearty food.
- Kid-friendly, customizable, and easy to scale up for feeding a crowd.
- Minimal cleanup since it’s all cooked in one pot!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole
- 1 pound lean ground beef or ground sausage
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 to 4 red potatoes, unpeeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 14.5-ounce can kidney beans, drained
- 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 1/2 cups frozen corn
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Pinch cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or taco blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro and sour cream for garnish (optional)
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart slow cooker (Crock-Pot)
- Large skillet for browning meat and veggies
- Cutting board and knives
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef (or sausage), onions, and diced bell peppers. Season with salt and black pepper. Brown the meat until fully cooked and the veggies are softened, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Place half the potatoes in the bottom, then layer the browned meat and veggies over top. Add the drained kidney beans, frozen corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Mix
In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper or hot sauce (if using). Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the slow cooker ingredients. Gently stir to combine and then press everything into an even layer.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Cooking
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy warm!
Variations and Tips
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add in other veggies like peas, carrots, or fresh bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Try different cheeses: Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Double the recipe for larger families or meal prep.
What to Serve with Cowboy Potato Casserole
- A crisp green salad or slaw for freshness
- Steamed broccoli or green beans to round out the meal
- Warm bread rolls or cornbread for soaking up the juices
- Fresh salsa or guacamole for extra flavor
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating. Reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole, you’re sure to love these other comforting, easy-to-make dishes:
- Crockpot Beef Manhattan Recipe: Tender slow-cooked beef served open-faced with mashed potatoes and rich gravy, a classic comfort food favorite.
- Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: Creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly nights, this recipe is a family favorite.
- Cheesy Breakfast Casserole: A crowd-pleasing combination of eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread baked into a delicious morning feast.
- One-Pot Chili Mac: A robust chili with ground beef, beans, and pasta all cooked together in one pot for quick comfort food.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes with roasted garlic, a perfect side for any hearty dinner.
Try these recipes and keep your comfort food rotation full of flavor and simplicity!
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is a fuss-free, comforting meal perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or whenever you want a delicious one-pot dinner. With tender potatoes, savory ground meat, beans, corn, and melty cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the comfort of easy home cooking!
PrintThe Best Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole You’ll Ever Make
Hearty and easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole with seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, potatoes, corn, and melted cheddar cheese. A comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 6-7 hrs (low) or 3-4 hrs (high)
- Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 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
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups sliced potatoes (about 1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preference)
Instructions
1. Brown the ground beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer beef mixture to slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, frozen corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Layer sliced potatoes on top, making sure they are coated in the sauce.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until potatoes are tender.
5. About 20 minutes before done, sprinkle cheese evenly on top, cover and let melt.
6. Serve warm.
Notes
Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for best results. You can customize cheese and spice levels to taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.