Description
A hearty and comforting Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole packed with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and flavorful spices, slow-cooked to perfection and topped with melted cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main 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)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion and cook until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Transfer to Crock-Pot: Move the beef mixture to the crock-pot. Add sliced Yukon gold potatoes, sliced carrots, tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes with juices, black eyed peas, corn, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the crock-pot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until carrots and potatoes are fork-tender. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Close the lid and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese has fully melted and is bubbly.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of diced tomatoes with juices or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes on high.
- Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer, use fresh corn instead of canned for a fresher flavor.
- The cheese topping is optional but adds a delicious creamy texture and flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and also freeze well.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
