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
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat to reduce greasiness and improve flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer directly on top of the beef mixture, covering the surface completely.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.