Irresistible Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Imagine a bubbling pot of deliciousness, where savory beef mingles with zesty tomatoes and creamy beans, all wrapped in the comforting embrace of melted cheese. This is the magic of Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole, a dish that smells like home and tastes like a warm hug after a long day. Picture yourself sinking into your favorite couch, spoon in hand, ready to dive into this hearty meal that feels like a cozy campfire gathering under the stars. For more inspiration, check out this hearty dinner recipes.

Now, let me take you back to a chilly autumn evening when I first discovered this gem. My family had gathered for our annual fall feast, complete with laughter and stories that echoed through our home. As the aroma of this casserole wafted through the air, my uncle declared it the “best thing since sliced bread.” And honestly? He wasn’t wrong. It became an instant hit, bringing everyone together around the table with full bellies and happy hearts.

I can still hear my cousin’s delighted gasp when she took her first bite.

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Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep it hearty yet not too greasy; it balances perfectly with other ingredients.
• Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for that juicy flavor; fire-roasted varieties add an exciting twist.
• Canned Beans: Black beans or kidney beans work well; they give extra protein and fiber to this dish.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for deeper flavor before adding to the slow cooker.
• Bell Peppers: Choose colorful peppers for visual appeal; they deliver crunch and freshness to every bite.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully over the top; it’s gooey perfection waiting to happen.
• Spices: Paprika, cumin, and chili powder elevate the flavor profile; adjust based on your spice tolerance preference.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth helps create a delightful base; it enhances flavors without overpowering them.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onions and bell peppers into small pieces. This way, they’ll distribute their flavors evenly throughout your casserole as it cooks.

Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked while breaking it apart with a spatula. Add chopped onions and peppers until everything softens and becomes fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Beans: Transfer the cooked mixture into your slow cooker. Toss in diced tomatoes (with juices) and drained canned beans, giving everything a good stir to combine.

Season Up!: Sprinkle paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Don’t hold back—this is where you add depth to your cowboy casserole!

Pour Chicken Broth: Gently pour low-sodium chicken broth over everything in your slow cooker. This will help meld all those incredible flavors together as they cook.

Cook Low and Slow!: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows flavors to deepen while you go about your day!

Add Cheese Before Serving!: Once cooked through, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top shortly before serving. Let it melt slightly under the lid for an irresistible cheesy finish.

There you have it! An entire meal crafted in one pot without breaking a sweat! Your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole will be bubbling away while you enjoy life outside the kitchen.

This recipe is more than just food; it’s an experience that brings loved ones together around familiar flavors that feel like home-cooked love served on plates filled with joy. So grab those ingredients and let’s create some memories!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by browning the ground beef separately to enhance flavor. Then, layer your ingredients in the slow cooker for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in ground turkey or add black beans for extra protein. Experimenting with seasonings can create new flavor profiles.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.

Sharing this dish with my family always brings back memories of cozy nights and laughter around the dinner table, where everyone eagerly digs in.

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as healthier alternatives for ground beef.

Can I prepare Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything and refrigerate until ready to cook.

How long does Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole last in the fridge?

Stored properly, it lasts about three days in the refrigerator without losing flavor.

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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

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• Author: tastyfoodonly
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole, a hearty one-pot meal that combines savory ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and creamy beans, all topped with gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish warms your soul and brings loved ones together around the table. With minimal effort, you’ll create a comforting meal that tastes like home.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 cup bell peppers (chopped)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; break it apart as it cooks. Add chopped onions and bell peppers until softened.
2. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in diced tomatoes and black beans.
3. Season with paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour low-sodium chicken broth over the mixture.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top until melted.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg