Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the kind of cozy, no-fuss dinner that instantly brings comfort to the table while keeping prep effortless. With tender potatoes, seasoned beef, hearty beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce, every bite feels deeply satisfying. Plus, because everything simmers slowly, the flavors naturally blend into something warm, savory, and irresistible.

Meanwhile, this recipe is perfect for busy days since the slow cooker does most of the work. Simply layer, pour, and let time do the magic. As it cooks, the aroma fills your kitchen, making dinner feel special without extra effort.

Interestingly, cowboy-style casseroles were inspired by one-pot meals cooked over open fires, designed to feed many with simple ingredients. Today, that rustic idea lives on in modern kitchens—only easier and just as comforting. Whether served for family dinner or meal prep, this dish always delivers bold flavor and home-style warmth.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 cup baby gold potatoes, halved
1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup sweet corn kernels
¾ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
¾ cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup diced tomatoes
½ cup yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup beef broth
1 Tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 Tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Brown the beef:
First, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then transfer to the slow cooker.

2. Add vegetables and beans:
Next, add potatoes, corn, black beans, kidney beans, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

3. Build the sauce:
Then, whisk beef broth, tomato paste, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour evenly over the mixture.

4. Slow cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender and flavors are deeply developed.

5. Finish with cheese:
Finally, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, cover, and cook 10–15 minutes until melted. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Layer for texture: Always place potatoes near the bottom so they cook evenly and absorb flavor as the casserole simmers slowly.
• Balance the richness: Although the dish is hearty, adding fresh parsley at the end brightens every bite beautifully.
• Cheese timing matters: Because cheddar melts quickly, adding it last prevents greasiness while keeping the topping creamy and smooth.