Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole puts ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes and bell peppers in the slow cooker with taco seasoning, then tops it with frozen tater tots and shredded cheese. As it cooks, the tots turn into a crisp layer over a hearty, saucy filling. Prep takes 15 minutes, and the recipe serves 6 cups.

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The only stovetop step is browning the beef. After that everything goes into the slow cooker and you leave it alone.

What Goes in the Slow Cooker

The recipe card at the bottom lists the full amounts. Here is what each ingredient does.

• Ground beef (1 pound): the protein base. Brown it well and drain it before it goes in, which adds flavor and keeps the casserole from turning greasy.
• Corn (1 can, drained): adds sweetness and color.
• Black beans (1 can, rinsed and drained): they add protein and fiber, and a creamy texture.
• Diced tomatoes (1 can): bring acidity and make a light sauce that ties everything together.
• Bell peppers (1 cup, diced): add crunch and a hint of sweetness.
• Taco seasoning (1 packet): gives the casserole its bold, zesty flavor.
• Frozen tater tots (2 cups): the crisp topping, which contrasts with the soft layers below.
• Shredded cheese (1 cup): melts into a gooey layer on top.

Putting It Together

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain it. In the slow cooker, combine the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell peppers and taco seasoning. Stir in the cooked beef. Top with the tater tots and the cheese.

Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The tots and cheese on top give the casserole its crust.

Ways to Change It

• Lighter: use ground turkey in place of the beef.
• More vegetables: add zucchini or carrots.
• More heat or smoke: a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
• Different cheese: pepper jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses on top.
• Seasonal: pumpkin or butternut squash in fall, and fresh corn and diced tomatoes in summer.
• Vegetarian: plant-based ground meat in place of the beef.

Prefer the oven? The Amish beef casserole layers ground beef, thin potatoes and cream of mushroom soup under melted cheddar.

Leftovers and Make-Ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the casserole moist. The flavors meld overnight, so it tastes even better the next day and works for meal prep.

To save time in the morning, prepare the ingredients the night before. You can also assemble the whole casserole, cover it and keep it in the refrigerator until you cook it.

For another dump-and-go dinner, try the slow cooker tortellini and meatballs finished with melted mozzarella.

What to Serve With It

A garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette gives a fresh contrast. Cornbread or garlic bread soaks up any leftover sauce. For toppings, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the spices. Sliced avocado also works. Chopped green onions or cilantro add color.

Iced tea or a light beer goes with the rich flavors. Sparkling water with a slice of lime is the non-alcoholic option.

Nutrition per Serving

A serving is 1 cup.

• Calories: 450
• Total fat: 24 grams (10 grams saturated, 9 grams unsaturated, 1 gram trans)
• Cholesterol: 70 milligrams
• Sodium: 800 milligrams
• Total carbohydrates: 35 grams (8 grams fiber, 4 grams sugars)
• Protein: 22 grams

FAQ

Can the casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it the night before, cover it and refrigerate it. Then cook it in the slow cooker the next day.

What can replace the ground beef?

Ground turkey gives a similar texture and flavor and makes a lighter dish. Plant-based ground meat works for a vegetarian version.

How should leftovers be stored?

In an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team

The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us