Name: Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 cups cubed potatoes (russet or Yukon gold); 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

If you’re after a hearty, no-fuss comfort meal that simmers to perfection while you go about your day, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is calling your name. It’s a bold, rustic dish packed with tender potatoes, juicy ground beef, rich tomato flavors, and just the right kick of spice. Think of it as the cozy campfire classic reimagined for your modern kitchen.

With every spoonful, you’ll find melty cheese, beans, and sweet corn mingling in a savory, seasoned sauce that tastes like it’s been cooking for hours—because it has. This casserole brings out the best of slow cooking: minimal prep, big flavor, and leftovers that taste even better the next day.

What Type of Potatoes Should I Use?

For the perfect texture, russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal. They hold their shape without turning to mush during the long cook time. Cut them into even-sized chunks so they cook uniformly and soak up all those rich flavors.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Ground Beef: This forms the hearty base of the casserole. Browning it before adding to the slow cooker deepens the flavor.

Potatoes: Cubed russet or Yukon gold potatoes give the dish substance and a creamy bite.

Kidney Beans: These add protein and color. You can also use black beans or pinto beans.

Corn: Adds sweetness and balances the spice in the casserole.

Diced Tomatoes: Brings in acidity and moisture. Choose fire-roasted for an extra smoky note.

Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics that boost the base flavor.

Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the casserole, giving you a gooey, cheesy finish.

Beef Broth: Helps meld all the flavors and keeps the texture rich and stew-like.

Seasonings (Paprika, Cumin, Salt, Pepper): Adds depth and a hint of southwestern flair.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, layer the cubed potatoes on the bottom. Top with the beef mixture, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Pour beef broth over the top to keep everything moist.

Step 3: Let it Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender and the flavors well developed.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt under the lid.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, then ladle into bowls and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Serve this dish warm straight from the crockpot for a fuss-free dinner. It’s a one-bowl meal that satisfies everyone at the table, from kids to adults. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready for round two.

What to Serve With Cowboy Casserole?

Cheddar Cornbread

The sweetness of cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory casserole.

Green Salad with Ranch

A crisp, tangy salad cuts through the richness and adds freshness.

Garlic Bread

For mopping up every last bit of that cheesy, saucy goodness.

Pickled Jalapeños

Add a spicy zing on the side for those who love heat.

Creamy Coleslaw

Offers crunch and contrast with the warm, soft textures of the casserole.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you loved this cowboy casserole, you might want to try these next:

Runza Casserole for a Midwestern spin on ground beef and cabbage.
Chicken Taco Casserole for a Tex-Mex inspired dinner.
Hashbrown Chicken Casserole packed with creamy goodness and golden potatoes.
French Onion Beef Rice Casserole for a cozy, umami-rich option.
Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini if you love casseroles with a pasta twist.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a smoky BBQ sauce or an extra helping of spice? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your spin or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite recipe is waiting for you there.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Warm up your dinner routine with this flavorful Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole, a comforting, no-hassle meal loaded with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, and melty cheese. This easy recipe is the ultimate one-pot wonder for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, easy slow cooker recipe, or new casserole ideas, this hearty cowboy classic delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or reheating as next-day leftovers.