Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
This slow cooker cowboy casserole is all about hearty ground beef, creamy soup, sweet corn, melty cheddar, and a cozy layer of tater tots on top. It is one of those comfort food dinners that's perfect for a cold day.
If you are juggling work, homework, and after school activities, this crockpot cowboy casserole makes dinner easier. It is budget-friendly, kid-approved, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need a home cooked meal waiting for you.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It is hearty and filling. Ground beef, corn, cheese, and tater tots come together for a cowboy casserole with potatoes that keeps everyone satisfied.
- The slow cooker does the work. After a quick mix, the crockpot handles the cooking while you move on with your day.
- It uses everyday ingredients. Most of the items are pantry or freezer staples, which makes this an easy option for family recipes.
I love using my slow cooker to get dinner on the table. It's handy for our busy schedules and let's us enjoy a comforting dinner without much work. Two of our favorites, besides this casserole, is Crockpot Beef Stroganoff with Mushroom Soup and Crockpot White Chicken Chili.
Ingredients
- ground beef: Adds hearty protein and flavor to the base of the casserole.
- corn: Brings a touch of sweetness and texture that balances the savory beef.
- cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup: Creates a creamy sauce that holds everything together.
- sour cream: Adds richness and helps make the filling smooth and creamy.
- shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the mixture for cheesy flavor throughout.
- onion: Adds savory depth and aroma as it cooks.
- garlic powder: Boosts the overall flavor with subtle warmth.
- salt and pepper: Enhances the seasoning to taste.
- frozen tater tots: Forms the potato topping that makes this cowboy casserole with potatoes so comforting.
How to Make Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole
Step 1: Spray a 6 quart slow cooker insert with nonstick spray. Add browned and drained ground beef, corn, soup, sour cream, cheese, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Step 2: Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer across the top. Keeping them in one layer helps them cook evenly.
Step 3: Cover and cook on Low for 4 to 5 hours or High for 2 to 3 hours, until the casserole is hot and bubbly. The tater tots should be soft and cooked through.
Substitutions and Easy Swaps
- Use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
- Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken depending if needed.
- Add a drained can of black beans for extra protein or mixed vegetables for a more veggie loaded casserole.
- Stir in a small amount of taco seasoning for a cowboy corn casserole twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.
FAQs
Can you make slow cooker cowboy casserole ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the filling in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Add the frozen tater tots when you're ready to cook.
What is cowboy casserole with potatoes?
Cowboy casserole with potatoes typically includes ground beef, creamy sauce, vegetables, cheese, and a potato topping such as tater tots.
Can I cook crockpot cowboy casserole on high?
Yes. Cook on High for 2 to 3 hours or on Low for 4 to 5 hours until hot and bubbly.
Can I turn this into cowboy corn casserole?
You can add extra corn or stir in creamed corn for a sweeter variation while keeping the same base ingredients.
More Slow Cooker Dinners
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, browned and drained
- 1 can corn, drained 15 ounces
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 bag frozen tater tots 20 oz bag
Instructions
- Spray a 6 quart slow cooker insert with nonstick spray. Add ground beef, corn, soup, sour cream, cheese, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Spread frozen tater tots in a single layer across the top.
- Cover and cook on Low for 4 to 5 hours or High for 2 to 3 hours until hot and bubbly.
Any nutrition calculation are only estimates using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
