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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 4-6 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the perfect hearty and comforting dish for any day of the week! Packed with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese, all cooked together in a slow cooker for maximum flavor and convenience. This easy, set-it-and-forget-it recipe is ideal for busy nights when you want a filling meal with minimal effort. Top it off with a crunchy layer of tater tots for a true cowboy-style casserole that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • 1 bag (28 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Brown the Ground Beef:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  • Combine the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
    • Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
    • Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies (if using), ranch seasoning, taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
  • Layer the Tater Tots:
    • Evenly spread the frozen tater tots on top of the beef mixture in the slow cooker.
  • Cook the Casserole:
    • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden and the casserole is heated through.
  • Add Cheese:
    • About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. Cover again and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Serve:
    • Once the cheese has melted, your casserole is ready to serve! Top with a dollop of sour cream, if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

  • For added flavor, you can add a few dashes of hot sauce or chili powder to the beef mixture.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for cooked quinoa or lentils and adjust the seasonings to taste.
  • If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but be sure to keep an eye on the tater tots so they don’t burn.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4-6 hours (on low) or 2-3 hours (on high)
  • Category: Main Course, Comfort Food, Casserole
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

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Find it online: https://paradisedishes.com/slow-cooker-cowboy-casserole/