Crockpot Cowboy Casserole

This hearty Cowboy Casserole features ground beef, beans and potatoes for a stick-to-your-ribs frugal meal that is perfect for feeding your hungry crew. I created this recipe when I needed something that could feed my family for multiple meals without breaking the bank, and it's become our go-to comfort food during busy weeks.

This recipe saved me during a particularly hectic month when my kids had after-school activities every night. I could prep it in the morning, and we'd come home to a warm, hearty dinner that everyone would eagerly devour without complaints.

Ingredients

• Extra Lean Ground Beef: The foundation of the dish providing hearty protein. Choose 93% lean or higher for less fat without sacrificing flavor.
• Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes hold their shape during slow cooking while absorbing the savory flavors. Select firm potatoes without green spots.
• Kidney Beans: Add protein, fiber and a creamy texture. The undrained liquid contributes richness to the sauce.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provide acidity and moisture. The canned variety ensures consistent results year-round.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates a silky, rich sauce that binds everything together. Look for low-sodium options if watching salt intake.
• Yellow Onion: Builds essential flavor base. Choose firm onions with no soft spots.
• Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic quality. Fresh cloves provide the best flavor.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors. The larger crystals distribute more evenly than table salt.
• Dried Oregano: Provides an earthy, slightly sweet herb note that complements the beef perfectly.
• Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity. Freshly ground provides more aromatic oils.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Creates a gooey, flavorful topping. Medium or sharp cheddar works best for optimal flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Ingredients:

Mix ground beef, sliced potatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, diced onion, garlic, salt, oregano, and black pepper in your slow cooker. Ensure everything is well incorporated so flavors distribute evenly. Take time to break up any clumps of ground beef for consistent cooking.

Slow Cook:

Cover the slow cooker and set to HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours. The longer, lower temperature cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping the potatoes intact. You'll know it's ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Add Cheese:

Once the initial cooking time is complete, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the casserole. Replace the lid and continue cooking for another hour. This allows the cheese to melt perfectly into the dish while creating a delicious golden crust on top.

Serve:

After the cheese has melted completely, your Cowboy Casserole is ready to serve. The finished dish should have a thick, hearty consistency with tender potatoes, flavorful beef, and a rich sauce binding everything together.

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I discovered this recipe's versatility when I brought it to a neighborhood potluck and everyone asked for the recipe. The kidney beans are actually my favorite ingredient because they add such a wonderful creamy texture while making the meal more economical by stretching the protein. My husband, who claimed to dislike beans, didn't even notice them mixed into this delicious casserole.

Freezer Meal Success

This Cowboy Casserole is perfect for meal prepping and freezing. To prepare as a freezer meal, simply combine all ingredients except the cheese in a gallon-sized freezer bag, remove excess air, and freeze flat. When ready to cook, thaw partially before transferring to your slow cooker. The ability to prep this meal weeks ahead has saved our family dinner time countless times during especially busy periods.

Customize Your Casserole

One of the greatest aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. Try switching kidney beans for black or pinto beans for a different flavor profile. Bell peppers, corn, or green chilies add wonderful color and taste. For a spicier version, include a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of chili powder. The recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken as budget-friendly alternatives to beef. The bones of this recipe can adapt to whatever you have in your pantry.

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Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole truly stands alone as a complete meal, but I often serve it with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For feeding a larger crowd, warm cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment. During summer months, fresh sliced tomatoes with basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole. For a fun presentation at family gatherings, set out bowls of additional toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or extra cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as lean protein alternatives. Adjust seasonings to taste.

→ Can this be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef with plant-based meat or additional vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I cook this on the stovetop or in the oven?

Yes, you can cook this in a casserole dish in the oven at 350°F for about 1 hour or simmer it over low heat on the stovetop.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes to balance the hearty flavors of the casserole.

→ Can I prepare this as a freezer meal?

Yes, mix all ingredients (except cheese) and freeze them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw slightly and follow the slow cooker instructions, adding cheese during the last hour.