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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

This hearty casserole layers ground beef, potatoes, beans, and cheese in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a cozy, one-pot meal perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time7 hours
Total Time7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 500kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 10.75 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups sliced potatoes about 1.5 pounds
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or your preference

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
  • Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Assemble in the Slow Cooker

  • Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker.
  • Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, frozen corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined.

Add the Potatoes

  • Layer the sliced potatoes on top of the beef mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

Cook

    Cover the slow cooker and cook:

    • Low: 6–7 hours
    • High: 3–4 hours
    • Cook until the potatoes are tender.

    Add the Cheese

    • In the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
    • Cover and allow the cheese to melt before serving.

    Serve

    • Spoon the casserole into bowls or plates and serve warm.

    Notes

    Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well and don’t need peeling.
    Cheese Options: Use cheddar or try pepper jack for a spicy twist.
    Make Ahead: Brown the beef and prep the vegetables the night before for a quicker start.