Can you use a slow cooker instead of a casserole dish?

Yes, and that’s exactly what this recipe is all about. Crockpot cowboy casserole is designed specifically for the slow cooker. It replaces the need for a traditional casserole dish and oven, saving you time and keeping your kitchen cool.

Can you put raw ground beef in a slow cooker?

You can, especially if your slow cooker runs hot enough. However, browning the beef first helps develop more flavor and allows you to drain excess fat. If you’re short on time, tossing it in raw still works and will cook thoroughly over 6–7 hours on low.

What should you avoid when using a slow cooker?

Avoid overfilling your slow cooker (never go beyond two-thirds full). Also, resist the urge to open the lid too often; every peek lets out heat and extends cooking time. Lastly, avoid adding dairy too early; cheese or cream-based ingredients should go in during the last 30 minutes.

How long to cook a casserole in a slow cooker?

Most casseroles, including this one, cook well on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours . You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Crockpot Cowboy Casserole: Just 5 Ingredients, Big Flavor

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

4 medium russet potatoes, diced

1 can kidney beans, drained

1 can corn, drained

1 can diced tomatoes (with green chiles)

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. (Optional) Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.

2. Layer diced potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot.

3. Add browned beef (or raw if skipping browning).

4. Top with beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and spices.

5. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

6. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

7. Cover and cook until cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Scoop, serve warm, and enjoy!

Notes

You can swap ground beef with turkey or plant-based crumbles.

Sweet potatoes work as a flavorful substitution for russets.

Add jalapeños or extra chili powder for more heat.

Author: Chef Saly
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Calories: 420
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 690mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg