why make this recipe
This dish is easy and filling. It uses simple cans and frozen tater tots. You can set the slow cooker and forget it. If you like slow-cooked potato casseroles, see a similar idea here: Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole.
introduction
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole brings ground beef, beans, corn, and tater tots together in one pot. It cooks slowly and tastes warm and hearty. You can make it for a weeknight or busy day.
how to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Follow the simple steps below. The slow cooker does most of the work.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef mixture, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Layer the frozen tater tots on top of the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt. Serve warm.
how to serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Serve hot in bowls or on plates. Add a side salad or steamed veggies. For a quick garnish, add chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream. For other easy beef meals, you might like this idea: Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles.
how to store Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Put leftovers in airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
tips to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Brown the beef well to add flavor.
- Drain excess fat so the dish is not greasy.
- Use mild or spicy diced tomatoes to change heat level.
- Add extra cheese at the end for a richer top.
variation (if any)
- Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different taste.
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for more veg and spice.
FAQs
Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: Yes. Cook on high for about 2-3 hours, but check tater tots to avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: You can freeze the casserole without tater tots. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Add tater tots when reheating or cook them fresh.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: Yes. Cut potatoes small and pre-cook them before adding to the slow cooker so they finish cooking with the casserole.
Q: Do I need to thaw the frozen tater tots?
A: No. Place them frozen on top as the recipe says.
Conclusion
If you want more ideas like this Crockpot Cowboy Casserole, check this recipe: Crockpot Cowboy Casserole – Chelsea’s Messy Apron. For another take on cowboy casserole, see this version: Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole | What Molly Made.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef mixture, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Layer the frozen tater tots on top of the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt.