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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 43 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and crispy tater tots topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hands-off, satisfying family meal.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 2 cups frozen tater tots
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat to reduce greasiness and improve flavor.
  2. Mix Ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), chopped onion, black beans, kidney beans, and corn into the browned beef. Cook this mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef and bean mixture into your slow cooker, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform base layer.
  4. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer directly on top of the beef mixture, covering the surface completely.
  5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until the tater tots become golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
  6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cooked tater tots. Cover and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
  7. Serve: Serve the casserole hot, optionally topped with sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to lighten this dish.
  • For extra crispiness, finish the casserole under a broiler for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking instead of the additional slow cooker step.
  • Sour cream adds a nice tang and creaminess but can be omitted or replaced with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • This casserole can be made a day ahead; refrigerate and reheat gently to preserve texture.