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. Prepare up to the point of cooking, refrigerate overnight, then cook as directed. Alternatively, make it fully, cool, and store; reheating will bring it back to life.

What kind of slow cooker should I use?

Any good 6-quart crock pot will serve a family. If you have a smaller household, a 3 to 4 quart slow cooker works. Ceramic or stoneware liners hold heat well. If your slow cooker runs hot, choose the low setting and check the potatoes a bit earlier.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

You can. Ground turkey makes the dish lighter, but it will need more seasoning to stand up to the tomatoes and spices. Consider adding a touch more Worcestershire or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

Cut the potatoes into even pieces and place them toward the top if possible. Cook on low rather than high for a gentler finish. Yukon Golds are forgiving and hold texture without getting stodgy.

Is this casserole healthy?

It is a balanced, hearty meal with protein, vegetables, and starch. You can adapt it by using lean beef, adding extra vegetables, or reducing the cheese. Above all, homemade slow cooker meals let you control what goes into your food.

Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe 2026

Name: Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained; 2 cups diced potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Description

A warm, hearty casserole featuring ground beef, potatoes, and beans cooked slowly in a rich broth, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
2 cups diced potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is cooked through.
Drain excess fat.
Place the cooked beef mixture into the slow cooker.
Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn kernels, and diced potatoes to the slow cooker.
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Stir all the ingredients together in the slow cooker until well combined.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and allow the cheese to melt.
Serve the cowboy casserole warm.

Notes

For a creamier finish, stir in a half cup of cream or sour cream just before serving. This softens the edges and makes the casserole almost stew-like.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 480 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg