Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Category: The Heart of the Meal

Savor the warmth of a comforting one-pot meal with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and corn, all simmered together in a rich, tomato-based sauce. Everything melds together slowly, letting each ingredient deepen in flavor while your slow cooker handles the work. Topped with gooey melted cheddar, this meal is ideal for busy evenings or whenever a hearty, filling dish is needed. Enjoy the rustic appeal, easy preparation, and the satisfying, homestyle taste that comes with every serving. Perfect around the table with loved ones, it’s sure to be a family favorite.

Sweet by Emma official logo
Updated on Sat, 05 Jul 2025 20:28:10 GMT
A plate of food with rice and meat. Save
A plate of food with rice and meat. | sweetbyemma.com

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a true comfort meal that only asks for simple ingredients and a few minutes of hands-on prep. Let the slow cooker simmer away while you go about your day, and come home to a cozy, filling dinner with layers of flavor from beef, potatoes, beans, and a lightly spicy tomato sauce topped with melty cheese.

I first made this for a chilly fall evening when my kids had friends over. Now it is our go-to for game days and potlucks because it always disappears fast and everyone leaves happy.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: brings lots of flavor and satisfying protein. Choose one with a bit of fat for taste but not so much you need to drain a lot
  • Onion: gives sweetness and depth. A yellow onion works best for richness
  • Garlic: brings a punch of savory aroma. Look for firm cloves with tight skins
  • Condensed cream of mushroom soup: creates a creamy sauce and binds it all together. Low sodium versions keep it lighter
  • Milk: thins the soup for perfect consistency and a silky texture. Whole milk works best
  • Kidney beans: add hearty texture and a boost of nutrition. Check for beans that are plump and not broken
  • Diced tomatoes with green chilies: provide a tangy kick and extra flavor. Fire roasted tomatoes are especially tasty if available
  • Frozen corn: adds bursts of sweetness and color. Use corn that is bright yellow for the best look and taste
  • Chili powder: seasons the whole dish with a gentle warmth. Pick a fresh jar for bold flavor
  • Salt and black pepper: round out and heighten all the savory notes
  • Potatoes: give a tender bite and soak up the sauce. Yukon golds hold up best and become buttery
  • Shredded cheese: melts over the top for a gooey finish. Freshly grated cheese has the best melt and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:
Cook ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat. Let it cook until the beef is browned and the onions become soft and translucent. This step develops the deep flavor base and removes excess fat for a less greasy casserole
Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Add the cooked beef mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup milk cooked kidney beans diced tomatoes with green chilies frozen corn chili powder salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly so everything is evenly combined. This helps the flavors blend into a cohesive sauce as it cooks
Layer the Potatoes:
Add the sliced potatoes on top making sure they are fully coated with the beef and bean mixture. Gently press them down to ensure they are just nestled into the liquid. This allows the potatoes to cook evenly and soak up the tasty sauce
Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for six to seven hours or on high for three to four hours. The potatoes should be fork tender and all flavors well melded by the end of cooking. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep heat and moisture in
Finish with Cheese:
With only twenty minutes left in your cooking time sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the hot casserole. Replace the lid and let it melt fully for a bubbly cheesy layer on top of the hearty filling
A bowl of food with cheese and chives. Save
A bowl of food with cheese and chives. | sweetbyemma.com

One of my favorite ingredients is the diced tomatoes with green chilies. They add just the right tang and mild heat that brings the whole dish together. My kids always argue over who gets the cheesiest scoop which makes for fun dinner memories

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It reheats beautifully either in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in ground turkey or plant based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian take. Try black beans or pinto beans if you do not have kidney beans. If you need a dairy free option use a plant based cream soup and your favorite non dairy milk and cheese

Serving Suggestions

Top bowls with green onions chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with crusty bread cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It is also delicious scooped over tortilla chips as a fun game day snack

Cultural Story

Cowboy casseroles like this are inspired by the hearty skillet dinners cooked over campfires in the American West. Beans beef and potatoes were staples on real cattle drives for their nutrition and stick to your ribs appeal. Now it is a nostalgic favorite for modern families who love classic comfort food

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter twist without sacrificing flavor.

→ Do I need to peel the potatoes first?

Peeled or unpeeled potatoes both work; leaving skins on adds texture and nutrients.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a blend can add extra creaminess and flavor.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and store covered in the refrigerator, then reheat for easy serving later.

→ Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, portion leftovers into containers and freeze for up to three months for convenient meals.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Slow-cooked comfort dish combining potatoes, beef, beans, corn, and cheese for a hearty family meal.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
360 min
Total Time
375 min
By: Emma

Category: Main Courses

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Need

01 1 pound ground beef
02 1 medium onion, chopped
03 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
05 1/2 cup milk
06 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
07 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
08 1 cup frozen corn
09 1 teaspoon chili powder
10 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 4 cups sliced potatoes (about 1.5 pounds)
13 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or preferred variety)

How to Make It

Step 01

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.

Step 02

Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.

Step 03

Add the sliced potatoes, ensuring they are well coated with the beef and bean mixture.

Step 04

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, depending on your time.

Step 05

In the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

Additional Notes

  1. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting family dinner.

Tools Required

  • Slow cooker
  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergen Information

Double-check each ingredient for allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy (cheese and cream of mushroom soup).
  • Contains gluten (cream of mushroom soup may include gluten).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are provided as a guide and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 430
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Proteins: 25 g