Description

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and creamy soup, all slow-cooked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Ideal for easy weeknight dinners, this casserole combines robust flavors and simple prep for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb. ground beef
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

Canned Goods and Dairy

15 oz. can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
15 oz. can diced tomatoes
10.5 oz. can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings

1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. pepper

Instructions

Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
Sauté onion and garlic: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant, enhancing the dish’s flavor base.
Prepare the slow cooker base: Spread an even layer of peeled and diced potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker, forming the hearty foundation of the casserole.
Add the meat mixture: Layer the cooked ground beef, onion, and garlic mixture evenly on top of the potatoes in the slow cooker.
Add beans and tomatoes: Pour the drained kidney beans and diced tomatoes evenly over the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.
Mix the soup and seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful sauce.
Pour the sauce: Evenly pour the seasoned soup mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker. Use a spatula to spread it, making sure everything is coated.
Slow cook the casserole: Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
Add cheddar cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Cover to allow the cheese to melt fully.
Serve and enjoy: When cheese is melted and bubbly, the casserole is ready. Scoop into bowls or plates and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option without meat.
Make sure to rinse and drain the kidney beans to reduce sodium and prevent excess liquid.
For a spicier variation, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the soup mixture.
If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the amount of tomatoes or drain some of the juice before adding.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: slow cooker cowboy casserole, ground beef casserole, easy slow cooker recipes, hearty casseroles, cheesy slow cooker meals