Description
This Crock-Pot Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes simmer together in a flavorful blend of spices topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, this American classic is easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid greasiness.
- Transfer to slow cooker: Place the cooked beef mixture in the bottom of a greased slow cooker.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes with their juice, drained beans, corn, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to combine evenly with the beef.
- Layer tater tots: Arrange a single layer of frozen tater tots evenly over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2 1/2–3 hours until heated through and flavors meld.
- Add cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots, cover again, and let the cheese melt.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or diced green bell pepper to the meat mixture while browning.
- You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Ensure to drain fat after cooking beef to reduce grease.
- Use a well-greased slow cooker to prevent sticking.
