This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a crowd-pleaser! It’s packed with ground beef, beans, and corn, all topped with melted cheese and fluffy tater tots. Yum!
One of my favorite things about this dish is how easy it is to throw together. Just pop everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you relax! It’s perfect for busy days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein source. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I’ve tried both, and they’re just as tasty!
Beans: Kidney and black beans provide fiber and heartiness. If you’re short on beans, pinto beans or even lentils could work. Canned beans are super convenient here; just remember to rinse them!
Frozen Tater Tots: These create a crispy top layer. If you want to change things up, consider using frozen hash browns or sweet potato fries for a fun twist. They’ll add their own flavor!
Barbecue Sauce: This adds great flavor. You can use any BBQ sauce you like or even homemade. For a tangy kick, a chipotle sauce could work well, too!
Cheddar Cheese: My favorite for this dish is sharp cheddar, but you can also use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little heat. Use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy!
How Can I Ensure the Tater Tots Are Perfectly Crispy?
A common challenge with slow cooker casseroles is keeping the tater tots crispy. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cook the casserole on high heat before adding the tater tots. This helps avoid sogginess.
- Spread the tater tots evenly on top—this ensures they get that crispy texture!
- Cover the slow cooker while cooking the tater tots to help them cook through, but if they aren’t crispy enough, leave the lid off for a few minutes towards the end.
Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after cooking helps set everything, too. Enjoy your delicious cowboy casserole!
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 cup (8 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cowboy casserole will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 4-6 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker. You’ll need an additional 30 minutes for the tater tots to crisp up towards the end. So, in total, plan for a cozy evening with this hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion has softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess grease to keep it nice and healthy!
2. Preparing the Slow Cooker:
Now, transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into your slow cooker. This will be the base for your cowboy casserole.
3. Adding the Good Stuff:
In the slow cooker, add the kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, barbecue sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. It’s already starting to look delicious!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Relax and let the flavors meld together while your home fills with mouth-watering aromas!
5. Adding Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cheese is always a good idea!
6. Tater Tot Time:
Next, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the melted cheese. It’s an important step for the perfect crunch!
7. Final Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker again and set it to high. Cook until the tater tots are hot, cooked through, and crispy—this will take about 25-30 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the tater tots are golden and crispy, uncover the slow cooker and let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle. Then dig in and enjoy your hearty, cheesy cowboy casserole!
This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink, and you should have a delicious casserole!
How Can I Make This Vegetarian-Friendly?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with an extra can of beans or some diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Ensure that the barbecue sauce is also vegetarian or homemade without any meat-based ingredients.
What Can I Do with Leftover Casserole?
Leftover cowboy casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it up in a skillet over low heat. It also freezes well for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Other Toppings or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your casserole with toppings like sliced jalapeños, olives, or corn chips for extra crunch. Other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms can also be tossed in for added flavor and texture!
