Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together a blend of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply in the mood for a hearty meal, this casserole is an excellent choice. It combines protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one pot, making it easy to prepare and clean up. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also nutritious. With a combination of ground beef or turkey, beans, and a variety of vegetables, it’s rich in protein and fiber. In addition, the seasonings add a nice kick that elevates the dish, making it exciting for everyone at the dinner table. Plus, it’s perfect for families, and leftovers are just as good the next day!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Making Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is simple and doesn’t require much effort. It’s a fantastic dish for busy weeknights or when you want to serve a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s how to prepare it.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (or fresh veggies)
- 3 cups diced potatoes (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Brown the Meat and Onion: Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey along with the chopped onion. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is soft. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat before continuing.
Combine Ingredients in a Slow Cooker: Once the meat is cooked, transfer it to a slow cooker. Add the drained black beans, can of diced tomatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, and diced potatoes. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste.
Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This allows the potatoes to become tender and all the flavors to develop.
Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole. Cover the cooker again and let the cheese melt.
Serve: Once everything is cooked and bubbly, scoop out portions and serve warm. Enjoy this cozy meal with your family!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Once your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is ready, it’s time to serve it up! This dish is wonderful on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. For a little extra flair, consider adding a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on top of each serving. Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions can make a beautiful garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
For larger gatherings or potlucks, this casserole can be served buffet-style, allowing everyone to help themselves. It’s filling enough that you won’t need a lot of side dishes, making it an easy option for entertaining.
How to Store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), storing the casserole is straightforward. Allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Beef or Turkey: You can use either ground beef or ground turkey depending on your preference. Turkey is a leaner option, while beef adds a bit more richness.
Fresh vs. Frozen Veggies: For a fresher taste, use seasonal vegetables. If you are short on time, frozen mixed vegetables work just as well and are convenient.
Adjust Spice: If you like a bit more heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, for a milder version, use a less spicy taco seasoning.
Cheese Options: While cheddar is the classic choice, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a mix of your favorites for a unique twist.
Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker. Always check that the potatoes are tender before serving.
Variations
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is very flexible. Here are some variations you can try:
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and increase the amount of beans or lentils. You can also add different types of vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate some chili powder or diced green chiles for a spicier dish.
Creamy Version: Add in a can of cream of mushroom soup or chili to create a creamier texture. This can also amp up the flavor!
Taco Salad Style: After cooking, serve the casserole over a bed of lettuce for a fresh twist. Top it with tortilla chips for added crunch!
FAQs
1. Can I cook this casserole overnight?
Yes, if you set your slow cooker to low, you can cook it overnight for 8 hours. Be cautious of your timings, and ensure everything is ready when you wake up!
2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh potatoes work great in this recipe. Just make sure to dice them into small, even pieces for even cooking.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the larger quantity. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
4. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning using a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. This allows you to control the flavor and spice level!
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are gluten-free, but make sure to check that your taco seasoning is also gluten-free if you are following a gluten-free diet.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is undoubtedly a comforting and convenient dish. With its robust flavors and simple preparation, it’s a wonderful addition to your recipe rotation. Enjoy cooking, serving, and sharing this hearty meal with your loved ones!
Print
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omitted
Description
A delightful and comforting casserole that combines protein, vegetables, and carbs in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (or fresh veggies)
- 3 cups diced potatoes (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Onion: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or turkey along with the chopped onion. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is soft (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients in a Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked meat and onion to a slow cooker. Add the drained black beans, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and diced potatoes. Sprinkle in taco seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together until thoroughly combined.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole and cover again until melted.
- Serve: Once everything is cooked and bubbly, scoop out portions and serve warm.
Notes
This casserole is perfect for families and can be made ahead of time. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread, and add sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: casserole, slow cooker, comfort food, family meal