why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the perfect one-pot meal for busy families or anyone who wants a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines ground beef, beans, and veggies with delicious cheese for a filling and satisfying meal. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it easy to enjoy a homemade dinner after a long day.
how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain.
- In the slow cooker, combine the cooked beef, kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning.
- Stir in the diced peppers and onions.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheese and let it melt.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Serve the Cowboy Casserole warm, straight from the slow cooker. It makes a great main dish that you can top with additional cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Pair it with a fresh salad or some warm cornbread for a complete meal.
how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Feel free to add other vegetables based on your preference, like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- To make it spicier, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicy taco seasoning.
variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by using different types of beans, such as pinto beans or chickpeas. If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and add more veggies or some quinoa for protein.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can brown the beef and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Combine everything in the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook throughout the day.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bell peppers and onions work just fine. Just add them to the cooker without thawing first.
3. How do I make it gluten-free?
To ensure this recipe is gluten-free, make sure to use a gluten-free taco seasoning. Also, check your canned ingredients for gluten content.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning Ensure gluten-free if needed.
- 2 cups shredded cheese Use your favorite type of cheese.
- 1 cup diced bell peppers Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- 1 cup diced onions Frozen onions work fine.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then drain.
- In the slow cooker, combine the cooked beef, kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning.
- Stir in the diced peppers and onions.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheese and let it melt.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.