This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a large group. Imagine a delicious, comforting casserole packed with layers of tender ground beef, creamy corn, cheese, and crispy tater tots on top, all simmered together in the slow cooker for hours of rich flavor. This dish is an ideal choice when you want to throw together a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
It’s easy to customize with extra ingredients like bell peppers, black beans, or sour cream. Whether served as a main dish or as a fun, family-friendly dinner, the Cowboy Casserole will surely satisfy everyone at the table!
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- Ground beef – 500 g (1 lb)
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp (for sautéing)
- Yellow onion – 1 medium (about 120 g), diced
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Frozen corn – 200 g (1 ½ cups)
- Frozen tater tots – 800 g (1 bag)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded) – 200 g (2 cups)
- Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (approx. 300 g)
- Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (approx. 300 g)
- Milk – 120 ml (½ cup)
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
- Paprika – ½ tsp
- Chili powder – 1 tsp
- Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions – 2 tbsp
- Sour cream – 4 tbsp
- Bacon bits – 2 tbsp
- Jalapeño slices – for added spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk.
- Add the frozen corn, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Tater Tots and Cheese
- Spread the frozen tater tots evenly over the top of the beef and soup mixture.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
Step 4: Cook the Casserole
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
- After the cooking time is complete, the tater tots should be crispy on the top and the casserole bubbly around the edges.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Once done, serve the Cowboy Casserole warm with your choice of optional garnishes, such as chopped green onions, bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Add a few slices of jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Serving Suggestions
✔ With a Side Salad – Serve with a fresh green salad or colslaw to balance the richness of the casserole.
✔ Top with Salsa – A spoonful of fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor.
✔ Serve with Guacamole – Pair with guacamole for an extra creamy, flavorful side.
✔ Add Beans – For extra fiber, toss in some black beans or pinto beans.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Tips & Tricks for the Best Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
✔ Use Lean Ground Beef – For a lighter version, choose lean ground beef or ground turkey.
✔ Adjust the Tater Tots – If you prefer more tater tots, feel free to add a bit more to the top to make it extra crispy!
✔ Vegetarian Version – Substitute the ground beef with vegetarian crumbles or chopped mushrooms for a plant-based option.
✔ Add Extra Veggies – Bell peppers, chopped tomatoes, or zucchini can be added for more texture and flavor.
✔ Spice It Up – If you like a bit of heat, increase the chili powder, or add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mix.
Extra Additions for More Flavor
- Bacon – Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
- Sour Cream – Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Bell Peppers – Diced bell peppers add color and crunch to the casserole.
- Taco Seasoning – Instead of paprika and chili powder, use taco seasoning for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and cook it in the slow cooker the next day.
- Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much.
- Freeze? – Yes! Freeze individual portions of the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or slow cooker.
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