Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole a hearty and comforting slow cooker dish with layers of ground beef, beans, corn, and cheesy goodness. This cowboy casserole is the perfect meal for a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with bold flavors. The combination of taco-seasoned beef, beans, and crispy tater tots makes it a satisfying meal. Plus, everything comes together in the slow cooker, making it a convenient hands-off dinner. Whether I’m serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s always a hit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
2 cups frozen tater tots
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
In a skillet over medium heat, I brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat.
Then I add the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, onion, black beans, kidney beans, and corn to the skillet. I stir well to combine and let everything heat through for about 5 minutes. I season with salt and pepper to taste.
After that I transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker and spread it evenly.
Second I top the beef mixture with frozen tater tots, arranging them in a single layer.
I cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the tater tots turn crispy and golden brown.
I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, just until the cheese melts and gets bubbly.
Finally I serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Variations
Spicy Kick: I add chopped jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning for extra heat.
Different Proteins: Ground turkey or chicken works well instead of beef.
Extra Veggies: I sometimes mix in bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Cheese Choices: I swap cheddar for pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor.
Crunchier Tater Tots: For extra crispiness, I place the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and pre-bake them before adding them to the slow cooker.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I microwave portions for 1-2 minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If freezing, I let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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FAQs
How can I make this casserole in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
I assemble everything in a greased baking dish, bake at 375°F for about 40 minutes, then add cheese and bake for another 10 minutes.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes! I dice potatoes into small cubes, season them, and pre-cook them slightly before layering them on top.
What can I serve with cowboy casserole?
I like to serve it with a simple green salad, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready, I layer it in the slow cooker with tater tots and cook as directed.
How do I make this dish healthier?
I use lean ground beef or turkey, reduce the cheese, and swap regular tater tots for a sweet potato version.
Conclusion
This slow cooker cowboy casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a go-to dish for busy nights or feeding a crowd. Whether I make it as-is or switch up the ingredients, it always turns out delicious.
📖 Recipe:
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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole with layers of seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and crispy tater tots, all topped with melty cheese. This easy, hands-off dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners. Packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cups frozen tater tots
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, onion, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker and spread evenly.
- Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with sour cream, if desired.
Notes
Spicy Variation: Add chopped jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.
Alternative Proteins: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken.
Extra Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Crispier Tater Tots: Pre-bake tater tots before adding them to the slow cooker for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
