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Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy days or cozy nights. Imagine layers of ground beef, tender beans, sweet corn, and creamy cheese, all simmered together in a rich, savory sauce and topped with golden tater tots. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a hungry family.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Casserole
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can 15 oz corn kernels (drained)
  • 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Topping
  • 4 cups frozen tater tots
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • For Garnish
  • Fresh parsley or green onions chopped

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
  • Skillet (for browning beef)
  • - Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Brown the Beef
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
  4. In the slow cooker, combine the cooked beef mixture, kidney beans, corn, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  5. Step 3: Add the Tater Tots
  6. Spread the frozen tater tots in an even layer over the beef mixture. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Step 4: Cook
  8. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
  9. Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, comforting dish!