Slow Cooker Western-Style Casserole
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a bold, down-home comfort dish with smoky Southwestern flavor. Think of it as a mash-up between a hearty chili and a creamy potato bake. As the sliced potatoes cook right in the savory beef and bean mixture, they absorb the rich juices from the green chilies and cream of mushroom soup, turning perfectly tender and packed with flavor.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Sliced potatoes (about 1 1/2 lbs) | 4 cups |
| Kidney beans (drained and rinsed) | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Diced tomatoes with green chilies | 1 (14 1/2 oz) can |
| Condensed cream of mushroom soup | 1 (10 3/4 oz) can |
| Shredded cheese (Cheddar or your choice) | 1 cup |
| Frozen corn | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
How To Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Break the beef into small crumbles and cook until browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Combine the Base
Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, corn, and seasonings. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Layer in the Potatoes
Add the sliced potatoes and gently stir to coat them in the mixture.
Tip: Slice potatoes about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick so they cook evenly and become fork-tender.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or on High for 3–4 hours. Keep the lid closed during the first few hours to maintain consistent heat.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
During the final 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt into a rich, gooey topping.
