This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is destined to be your new favorite if you enjoy robust flavors, filling meals, and easy one-pot dinners. Packed with ground beef, smoky sausage, beans, corn, and zesty taco seasoning, this dish delivers a warm, cozy, and Southwestern-inspired experience. Best of all, your slow cooker does all the work—melding the ingredients into a thick, rich, and satisfying casserole. Perfect for game day, hectic weeknights, or any time you crave a crowd-pleasing, rib-sticking meal.
Why This Recipe Will Make You Love It
Easy Slow Cooker Meal
Sear the meat, combine all ingredients in the crockpot, and let the magic happen.
Hearty & Flavorful
Packed with protein, veggies, and bold spices, it’s a fulfilling meal that satisfies your hunger.
Large Batch Cooking
Ideal for leftovers or meal prep as it feeds a crowd.
Customizable
Modify it to be vegetarian, extra cheesy, or even spicier based on your preference.
Casserole Ingredients
Meat and Veggies
- Ground Beef: 1 pound for a hearty, beefy foundation.
- Smoked Sausage: 1 pound, cut into ½-inch pieces for a deep, smoky flavor.
- Onion: 1 large, diced to add a savory base.
- Red and Green Bell Peppers: 1 each, diced for color, sweetness, and crunch.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced to boost the flavor profile.
Base and Beans
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces, undrained) for a thick, saucy texture.
- Black Beans: 1 can (15 ounces, drained and rinsed) for added fiber, protein, and creaminess.
- Corn Kernels: 1 can (15 ounces, drained) to introduce a sweet crunch.
- Beef Broth: 1 cup to help bring everything together.
- Taco Seasoning: 1 packet to infuse a smoky, zesty spice blend.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste for optimal seasoning.
Garnish (Optional but Highly Recommended)
- Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup, shredded, for a melty, cheesy finish.
- Fresh Cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped, to add brightness and freshness.
Note: The recipe card below provides the exact ingredient amounts.
If you enjoy smoky flavors in hearty dishes, try Kielbasa Pasta Recipes for another delicious option.
Cooking Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole: How to Do It?
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and smoked sausage; cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Drain any excess fat before transferring the meat.
Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
- Place the browned meat into your slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Beans
- Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and beef broth.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the ingredients.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Gently stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours for deep, slow-simmered flavor.
- If you’re short on time, cook on High for 3-4 hours.
Step 6: Finish and Present
- Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Enjoy it straight from the bowl or serve it with rice, tortilla chips, or warm cornbread for an extra hearty dinner.
For another classic casserole, try Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole.
Great Cowboy Casserole Pro Advice
Enhance the Flavor
- Brown the Meat: This step intensifies the flavor and helps reduce excess grease.
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a deeper, smokier taste.
- Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like extra heat.
- Creamy Twist: Swirl in a dollop of sour cream just before serving for added creaminess.
- Thicken the Texture: Mash some of the beans to achieve a heartier consistency.
Serving Method
Enjoy It Your Way
- With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich, savory sauce.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Makes for a filling and balanced meal.
- Topped with Avocado or Guacamole: For a fresh, creamy contrast.
- In Tortillas: Create loaded tacos or burritos.
- With Salsa or Sour Cream: Add a refreshing, tangy side to balance the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Saving Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Freezing: Portion out and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Reheating Tips
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Without a Slow Cooker?
Yes! You can prepare it on the stovetop by simmering all the ingredients in a large saucepan over low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Can I Substitute Different Beans?
Certainly! Pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas are excellent alternatives.
Is There a Vegetarian Option?
Absolutely! Replace the meat with additional beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable stock in place of beef broth.
What’s the Best Sausage to Use?
While alternatives like chorizo, kielbasa, or turkey sausage work well, smoked sausage provides a rich, deep flavor that enhances the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a filling, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that promises comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing meals for the week, or just in the mood for a slow-cooked dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab a bowl, dive in, and savor every smoky, hearty mouthful! 😠🍲✨
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb 450g ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 medium russet potatoes peeled and sliced thin
- 1 15 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can corn, drained
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 10.5 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Sour cream
- Green onions sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Meat
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add half of the cooked beef mixture, followed by half of the kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, beans, corn, and tomatoes.
- Pour the condensed cream of mushroom soup and beef broth evenly over the top.
- Step 3: Cook the Casserole
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, green onions, or sour cream if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or smoked sausage to the layers.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.