Why You’ll Crave This Cowboy Potato Casserole
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together hearty ingredients in a warm, comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare and is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Whipping Up Your Cowboy Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 pounds frozen diced potatoes (such as O’Brien hash browns with peppers and onions, or plain diced hash browns)
- 1 can (15-ounce) whole kernel corn (drained)
- 1 can (10-ounce) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 can (10.75-ounce) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth or milk
- 1 teaspoon dried paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional, for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste; start with 1/2 teaspoon, adjust after cooking)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions or cooked, crumbled bacon (for topping, optional)
Cooking Instructions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
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Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add the frozen diced potatoes, drained corn, Rotel tomatoes (with juices), cream of mushroom soup, beef broth or milk, paprika, parsley flakes (if using), chili powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well to combine all the ingredients.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
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About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt and mix into the casserole.
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Just before serving, top with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon, if desired. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Serving Up Your Cowboy Potato Casserole
This casserole is perfect to serve straight from the slow cooker. You can scoop generous portions onto plates or into bowls. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.
Storing Leftovers
To store any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds flavor to the dish.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. If you love heat, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Use pre-cooked, frozen potatoes to save even more time!
Variations to Try
If you’re looking for a twist, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a healthier option. You can also mix and match different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Nutritional Information
(Nutritional information may vary based on recipe alterations and serving sizes.)
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 18g
Family Friendly Ideas
This Cowboy Potato Casserole is great for family dinners. Kids typically love the cheesy goodness, and it’s a clever way to sneak in some veggies. Consider pairing it with some fresh fruit or a light dessert for balance.
What to Serve Alongside
Pair this hearty casserole with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or even some garlic bread. You could also serve it with pickles or coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
Common Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool before you store it in an airtight container.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can make this casserole in the oven. Preheat to 350°F, mix all the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 1.5 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
Enjoy making this cozy dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table!
Cowboy Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 pounds frozen diced potatoes (e.g., O'Brien hash browns)
- 1 can (15-ounce) whole kernel corn (drained)
- 1 can (10-ounce) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 can (10.75-ounce) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup beef broth or milk
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt (to taste)
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 0.5 cup crispy fried onions or cooked crumbled bacon (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add the frozen diced potatoes, drained corn, Rotel tomatoes (with juices), cream of mushroom soup, beef broth or milk, paprika, parsley flakes (if using), chili powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well to combine all the ingredients.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt and mix into the casserole.
- Just before serving, top with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon, if desired. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
