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Delicious easy cowboy casserole made in a crockpot, served in a bowl.

Easy Cowboy Casserole

A hearty and comforting cowboy casserole made in a slow cooker, featuring ground beef, colorful veggies, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef Provides protein and flavor
  • 1 cup chopped onion Adds sweetness and aroma
  • 1/2 cup chopped sweet pepper Choose green, red, or yellow for freshness and color
  • 3 to 4 pieces red potatoes, unpeeled and cut in bite-sized pieces Adds heartiness and texture
  • 1 1/2 cups corn, frozen or fresh Brings sweetness and moisture
  • 1 14.5 ounce can kidney beans, drained Offers protein and creaminess
  • 1 10 ounce can diced tomatoes with green chilies Don't drain, contributes moisture and mild spice
  • 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes Don't drain, adds depth and richness
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Enhances overall flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances flavors
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic Adds savory depth
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Provides warmth and mild heat
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Impacts flavor complexity
  • 1 pinch cayenne or few drops hot sauce Adds heat, optional
  • 1/2 cup water or beef or chicken broth Helps create a savory base
  • 1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheese Melts into creamy comfort

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles.
  • Add the chopped onion and sweet pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Transfer the beef and veggie mixture to the slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
  • Layer the bite-sized red potatoes on top of the beef mixture.
  • Sprinkle the corn and kidney beans over the potatoes.
  • Pour the diced tomatoes with green chilies and standard diced tomatoes over the layered ingredients.
  • Season the casserole by adding black pepper, salt, minced garlic, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and optional hot sauce, then stir gently to combine.
  • Pour in the water or broth, stirring to blend into the mixture.

Cooking

  • Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
  • Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover until melted.

Notes

Brown the beef thoroughly for better flavor. Use fresh ingredients when possible, and adjust seasoning as per family preferences.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4g
Keyword casserole, comfort food, cowboy casserole, crockpot, Easy Recipes
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