Name: Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h 10 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 lbs ground beef; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste); 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick; 3 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds; 4 Tablespoons tomato paste; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices; 1 (15 oz) can black eyed peas, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and effortlessly delicious, you’re in for a treat with this Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender potatoes and carrots mingling with savory ground beef, juicy diced tomatoes, and a medley of spices that fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. This casserole brings together classic cowboy flavors in a convenient slow cooker dish that practically makes itself while you focus on other things. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough to serve family and friends who’ll be asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden cutting board sits on a white marbled surface, holding an array of raw ingredients arranged neatly. In the center, a white plate holds a square piece of raw ground beef, deep red in color with a moist texture. To the left, five bright orange carrots with smooth skin lay side by side, accompanied by a small pile of light yellow potatoes varying in size. At the back left, a clear glass bowl contains light beige black-eyed peas with dark spots. Next to it, a small white bowl is filled with yellow corn kernels. At the back right, a whole light brown onion and a bulb of garlic are placed close together. In front, a clear glass bowl is packed with chunky, bright red diced tomatoes. To the right of the beef plate, a small white bowl with three sections shows three different spices in shades of green, red, and brown, and below it, a metal measuring spoon holds a thick red paste. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color in this cozy casserole. From the rich browned beef to the earthy potatoes and the vibrant kick of spices, every component shines through in this dish.

Olive oil: Used to brown the beef and soften onions, infusing a subtle fruitiness that balances the rich meat.
Yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth once caramelized, perfectly complementing the savory elements.
Ground beef: The hearty protein backbone of the casserole, providing richness and satisfying texture.
Garlic (minced): Brings a pungent warmth that elevates the overall flavor profile with minimal effort.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning at every step to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Yukon gold potatoes (sliced): Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them ideal for slow cooking without falling apart.
Carrots (peeled and sliced): Add a gentle sweetness and vibrant orange color to brighten the dish.
Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds a rich umami depth to the casserole.
Diced tomatoes (with juices): Inject fresh acidity and juiciness that balance the meat and starchy veggies.
Black eyed peas (drained and rinsed): Introduce a subtle earthiness and delightful texture contrast.
Corn (drained): Sprinkles in a natural sweetness and tiny pops of color that make each bite interesting.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs to round out the savory flavors with an herbal lift.
Smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky note that makes this casserole feel warm and cozy.
Chili powder: Provides a mild heat and complexity, tying all the flavors together beautifully.
Shredded cheese (optional): Melts on top for a creamy, indulgent finish that crowns the casserole with gooey goodness.

How to Make Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your diced onions and ground beef, cooking until the beef is nicely browned and the onions have softened into sweet, translucent gems. This step is crucial because those caramelized flavors create a delicious foundation. Stir in minced garlic and kosher salt, cooking just a minute longer until the garlic releases its inviting aroma. This little bit of extra care makes all the difference in flavor depth.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Next, transfer the savory beef and onion mixture straight into your crock pot. Layer in the sliced Yukon gold potatoes and carrots—they’ll soak up all the wonderful juices while becoming perfectly tender. Add tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, black eyed peas, and corn. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili powder, making sure these spices mix evenly throughout. This vibrant mix of ingredients showcases the best of cowboy-country flavors.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or if you’re short on time, high for 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender. Slow cooking lets all the flavors marry together beautifully and allows the spices to develop their magic fully. Once done, taste and add any extra salt or seasoning you prefer for a perfectly balanced bowl of comfort.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Finale

For an extra layer of indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheese over the casserole, then cover and cook on high for another 10 to 15 minutes until it melts into a bubbly, golden topping. This cheesy finish adds creaminess and a bit of irresistible gooeyness that will have everyone digging in right away.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe

This dish is served on a round gray plate filled with a mix of cooked ingredients including browned ground meat, sliced potatoes with a golden-brown edge, corn kernels, black-eyed peas, and red bell peppers. On top of this mixture, there is a dollop of white sour cream sprinkled with small, chopped green chives. The food looks hearty and seasoned, with bits of melted cheese blending into the layers. A fork rests on the plate with some chives scattered around it. The plate is placed on a wooden surface with a soft cloth nearby, and in the background, there is a wooden bowl filled with sour cream and a small black bowl of chopped chives. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe with a handful of fresh chopped cilantro or parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors. A dollop of sour cream or even a drizzle of hot sauce can also jazz up the dish and tailor it to your taste preferences, creating a vibrant finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal all on its own, but pairing it with a simple crisp green salad or warm crusty bread makes for a well-rounded dinner. A light coleslaw or some roasted green beans can add refreshing crunch that contrasts the soft textures of the casserole fabulously. These sides keep the meal balanced and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe in rustic cast iron skillets or charming ceramic dishes to bring that cozy, homemade vibe to your table. For a fun family-style presentation, ladle it into individual bowls topped with shredded cheese and fresh herbs. You could even turn leftovers into loaded cowboy-style baked potato skins for a creative twist that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your casserole has cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, making for even tastier meals the next day, and leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days—a perfect make-ahead dinner for busy schedules.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this comfort food later, the Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Spoon portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion, and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick fix meal.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual portions gently or warm the casserole in a covered dish in a 350°F oven until bubbling hot throughout. Adding a splash of broth or water before reheating will help maintain the creamy texture and prevent dryness, ensuring every bite tastes just as good as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes in this casserole?

Absolutely! While Yukon gold potatoes work great because of their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes if you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor and a different texture.

Is it necessary to brown the beef before adding it to the crock pot?

Browning the beef first enhances the flavor significantly by creating caramelized bits that add depth to the dish. It also improves the texture, preventing the meat from becoming mushy during slow cooking.

Can I make this Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of any meat juices. You can also add extra beans or mushrooms for hearty texture and flavor.

How spicy is the casserole with the included chili powder?

The recipe uses just enough chili powder to add a mild warmth and complexity without overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount up or down depending on your spice preference.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and slow cook later?

Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients the night before and keep the crock pot insert covered in the fridge. The next day, just pop it into the slow cooker to cook as directed. This makes it a great option for busy mornings or meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe is like giving yourself a warm, delicious hug after a long day. It’s effortless to prepare yet impressively satisfying, with layers of hearty ingredients and delightful flavors that make every bite memorable. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving down-home comfort, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your slow cooker repertoire. Give it a go and watch it quickly become one of your favorites too!

Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need