This Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is a tasty mix of ground beef, creamy soup, and corn, topped with crispy tater tots. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
You’ll love how simple it is—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Perfect for those busy days when you want comfort food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the casserole, providing protein and flavor. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian option, swap it out for a mix of beans or lentils.
Onion: Chopped onions add sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan, you can use shallots or even onion powder for a milder taste.
Creamed and Whole Kernel Corn: The creamed corn adds creaminess, while the whole kernel corn provides texture. If you want a fresh taste, you can use frozen corn instead of canned.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is great for creaminess. If you’re avoiding mushrooms or looking for a healthier option, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you enjoy!
How Do I Ensure My Tater Tots Are Crispy?
To get that irresistible crispy top on your tater tots, here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the tater tots when adding them to the slow cooker. Lay them in a single layer for even crisping.
- If time allows, consider cooking the casserole on high heat for the last 30 minutes uncovered to allow steam to escape.
- For extra crispiness, you can briefly place the slow cooker insert in the oven broiler for a few minutes at the end (but watch closely to prevent burning).
Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and will take about 4-6 hours in the slow cooker on low or 2-3 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Onion:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole nice and tasty!
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
After browning the beef and onion, transfer the mixture to your slow cooker. Now, add in the creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together well so it’s nicely mixed!
3. Layer the Casserole:
Spread out the mixture evenly in the slow cooker. Now it’s time to sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top! It’s going to make the casserole so cheesy and delicious.
4. Add the Tater Tots:
Finally, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. This will form a crispy, golden crust as it cooks!
5. Cook and Serve:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Check it occasionally—when it’s bubbly and the tater tots are crispy and golden, it’s ready to enjoy! Let it cool slightly before serving. Dive in and enjoy your comforting cowboy casserole!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still have a delicious casserole!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, definitely! Simply replace the ground beef with a mix of beans (like black beans or kidney beans) or lentils. You may also want to add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings or warm gently on the stove until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and vegetable mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, simply layer in the slow cooker with the toppings and cook as directed!
