Description
Hearty slow cooker cowboy casserole brings robust ranch-style comfort to dinner tables with rich ground beef and potato layers. Cheesy, savory goodness awaits you in this simple midwestern classic that delivers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (14 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Dairy and Creamy Components:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the protein foundation by sautéing ground beef with aromatic onions and minced garlic in a skillet until the meat achieves a rich, caramelized exterior. Eliminate excess grease and enhance the flavor profile with smoky paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Craft a velvety sauce by whisking cream of mushroom soup, tangy sour cream, and smooth milk into a harmonious blend.
- Construct the casserole in strategic layers within the slow cooker, beginning with a foundation of delicately sliced potatoes. Distribute half the seasoned beef mixture, followed by an even spread of diced tomatoes, vibrant corn kernels, and tender green beans.
- Cascade half the creamy sauce across the vegetable landscape and generously dust with shredded cheddar cheese. Replicate the layering process, ensuring the final stratum features remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
- Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the dish to simmer gently on low temperature for 6–7 hours or expedite the process on high setting for 3–4 hours until potatoes reach a fork-tender consistency.
- During the final quarter-hour of cooking, optionally crown the casserole with an additional cheese blanket, permitting it to melt luxuriously.
- Elevate the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or green onions, then serve piping hot for a rustic, comforting meal.
Notes
- Trim excess fat from ground beef to reduce greasiness and make the dish lighter.
- Opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier protein option.
- Use fresh vegetables instead of canned to enhance nutritional value and flavor profile.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or monterey jack for unique taste variations.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced uniformly for consistent cooking and texture throughout the casserole.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you enjoy spicier dishes.
- Prepare ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly on busy weeknights.
- For gluten-sensitive individuals, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check vegetable cans for potential gluten contamination.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg