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Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole
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This Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish combining tender potatoes, savory ground beef, melted cheese, and classic cowboy seasonings. Perfect for an effortless weeknight dinner or family meal, it uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients layered and slow-cooked to create a cozy and satisfying casserole with rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Variations (Optional)

  • 1 cup cooked lentils or textured vegetable protein (for vegetarian version)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (mushrooms, corn, chopped zucchini)
  • 1–2 diced jalapeños or to taste (for spicy twist)
  • Alternative cheese options (pepper jack, mozzarella, or cheese blend)
  • Plant-based cheese substitute or 1/4 cup coconut cream (for dairy-free option)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and thinly slice the potatoes for even cooking. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic until fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder while cooking.
  2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Spread half of the browned beef and onion mixture on top, then sprinkle with diced bell peppers if using. Repeat layering with remaining ingredients, finishing with a top layer of potatoes.
  3. Add Soups, Broth, and Cheese: Evenly pour the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth over the layered ingredients. Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours. Do not stir during cooking to maintain the layered structure and allow flavors to meld while softening the potatoes completely.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to firm up. Scoop onto plates and garnish as desired with chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or sour cream.

Notes

  • Choose Yukon Gold potatoes for better shape retention or Russets for creamier texture and flavor absorption.
  • Don’t overload the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and tender potatoes throughout.
  • Cooking on low heat prevents drying out and achieves tender, flavorful results.
  • Brown the beef and chop vegetables ahead of time for quicker assembly.
  • Add extra cheese during the last 30 minutes for a gooier, melty topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker casserole, cowboy casserole, potato casserole, ground beef casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, gluten free casserole

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/slow-cooker-cowboy-potato-casserole/