Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is your go-to dish for any occasion. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its simple prep and slow-cooked flavor make it a favorite among comfort food lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal active cooking time, you can set this casserole in the slow cooker and let it do all the work.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of beef, creamy sauce, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this casserole fits well into any meal plan and is easy to adapt based on your preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup while delivering comforting flavors.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages with its cheesy goodness and heartiness, making it a hit for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will enhance your cooking experience. Having everything ready will streamline the process of making this delicious casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The key to achieving that tender, slow-cooked flavor without constant supervision.
• Knife: Essential for chopping onions and mincing garlic, which adds depth to the dish.
• Mixing spoon: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, corn, and Rotel in a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal.

For the Base

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 pounds frozen diced potatoes (such as O’Brien hash browns with peppers and onions, or plain diced hash browns)
• 1 can (15-ounce) whole kernel corn (drained)
• 1 can (10-ounce) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 can (10.75-ounce) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup beef broth or milk

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional, for color)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste; start with 1/2 teaspoon, adjust after cooking)

For Topping

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup crispy fried onions or cooked, crumbled turkey bacon (for topping; optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
1. Add the browned beef.
2. Include chopped onions and minced garlic.
3. Stir in frozen diced potatoes, drained corn, Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and broth or milk.
4. Sprinkle in paprika, parsley flakes, chili powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Well

Use your mixing spoon to combine all ingredients thoroughly until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat:
– Cook for about 3 hours until potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Cheese

In the last 15 minutes of cooking:
– Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.

Step 6: Serve

Once finished cooking:
– Top with remaining cheese and crispy fried onions or turkey bacon if desired before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons pairs well with the hearty casserole.

Topped with Extras

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top can add creaminess and balance the flavors.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions sprinkled on top provide a fresh, zesty kick.

Accompanying Breads

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the casserole’s richness and is perfect for scooping up leftovers.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices; they enhance the flavors significantly. Adjust to your taste preference for an extra kick.
• Use frozen potatoes: Frozen diced potatoes save time and ensure consistent cooking throughout the casserole.
• Layer ingredients: For even cooking, layer the ground beef on the bottom and follow with potatoes and other ingredients.
• Cook low and slow: Setting your slow cooker on low for the full time allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add cheese gradually: Stir in half of the cheese during cooking and reserve some for topping just before serving for added cheesiness.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic make a simple yet flavorful side that adds color and nutrition.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole, enhancing every bite.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with salt and pepper provide a deliciously earthy flavor.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also brings vibrant color to your plate.
5. Baked Potatoes: Individual baked potatoes allow guests to customize their toppings, making it an interactive side option.
6. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a sweet note that balances out the savory elements of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the perfect Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the ground beef may result in a less flavorful dish. Always brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker for better taste.
• Using Fresh Potatoes: Fresh potatoes can turn mushy when cooked for long periods in a slow cooker. Stick to frozen diced potatoes for optimal texture and ease of preparation.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings after cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always taste before serving and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling your slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Make sure not to exceed the manufacturer’s recommended fill line for best results.
• Not Allowing Enough Cook Time: Cooking on low for too short a time may leave ingredients undercooked. Ensure you allow enough time for all components to become tender and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed throughout.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Place leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious dish, here are some common inquiries answered:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute that will still provide a hearty flavor while being slightly leaner than beef.

How do I ensure my Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole doesn’t get watery?

Make sure you drain any canned ingredients like corn and use frozen diced potatoes, which help maintain the right consistency during cooking.

What can I serve with my Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables such as bell peppers or swap out cheeses based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or busy weeknights. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides, ensuring everyone at your table enjoys every bite. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a household favorite!

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Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole, a hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this casserole is designed to satisfy both hunger and taste. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld beautifully over the hours. Every bite is loaded with cheesy goodness and savory spices, making it an instant favorite for all ages. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this one-pot meal delivers warmth and comfort effortlessly.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 2 pounds frozen diced potatoes
• 1 can whole kernel corn
• 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
2. In a slow cooker, combine browned beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, frozen potatoes, drained corn, Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth.
3. Season with paprika, parsley flakes (if using), chili powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
4. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
5. Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot topped with remaining cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg