Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Introduction
Looking for a warm and filling meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. This hearty dish combines ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and cheese in one pot, making dinner a breeze. Just set it up in the morning, and you’ll come home to a delicious home-cooked meal!
Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s simple to make and requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pot. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, which means it will keep you full and satisfied. This dish is also great for feeding a crowd or for leftovers. You can customize it easily with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile meal for any palate.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Making Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is easy! Follow these simple steps to create this tasty dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can black beans (drained)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juices), and taco seasoning. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
- In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole hot from the slow cooker. You can top it with sour cream, chopped green onions, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor. It’s also great with tortilla chips or on a bed of rice.
How to Store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a suitable container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Use low-sodium beans and tomatoes if you want to control the salt level.
- You can add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add different types of cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick or use different beans like pinto or kidney beans.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh corn can be used. Just make sure to cook it first before adding it to the slow cooker.
Can I make this recipe without meat?
Absolutely! You can leave out the meat and replace it with more beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
How long does it take to cook if I use the high setting?
If you use the high setting on your slow cooker, it will take about 3 hours to cook. Just be sure to check that everything is heated through and the cheese is melted.
