Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. That is how Southern flavors settle and sing. Make it a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat slowly. Add fresh cheese and herbs before serving.

Can I use turkey or ground chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken will work fine. Brown it well and season a touch more because lighter meats need a bit of help to stand up to tomatoes and spice.

How do I get the tater tots crispy in a slow cooker?

For crispier tots, finish them under a broiler in a baking dish for 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, bake them separately and add just before serving. If you leave them on top in the slow cooker, they will warm and brown slightly, but not as crisp as the oven.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze in a sturdy container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven so the texture returns.

Can I add vegetables to make it healthier?

You can fold in diced bell pepper, a cup of spinach near the end, or diced zucchini during the last hour. Vegetables add color and a fresh note, and they cook well with the rest of the casserole.

How To Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole 2026

Name: Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound 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; 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning; 2 cups frozen tater tots; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Description

A comforting and hearty casserole combining ground beef, beans, corn, and a crunchy tater tot topping, slow-cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound 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
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
2 cups frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat.
In a slow cooker, add the browned beef, black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen tater tots on top, arranging them in an even layer.
Cover and cook until the tater tots are heated through and crispy.
Before serving, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt.
Serve straight from the pot with a large spoon and generous love.

Notes

For a tangier finish, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a spoon of ketchup when stirring. Use real butter for browning meat for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg