This Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is a hearty, comfort-filled dish that brings the flavors of the trail right to your table! Inspired by the cowboy meals of old, this casserole features ground beef, potatoes, creamy soup, and melted cheddar cheese – all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s an easy, filling meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening when you want something hearty but low-maintenance. Top it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and you’ve got a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks or diced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat & Veggies:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat. - Prepare the Soup Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth. - Layer in the Slow Cooker:
In the bottom of the slow cooker, layer half of the diced potatoes. Then top with half of the cooked meat mixture and half of the soup mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, meat, and soup mixture. - Cook the Casserole:
Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. - Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole and cook, covered, for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. For added richness, you can also top with a dollop of sour cream or additional shredded cheese.
Variations & Tips
- For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or diced cooked chicken.
- Add extra vegetables like corn, peas, or carrots for more flavor and nutrients.
- Try different types of cheese; pepper jack adds a zesty kick!
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Potassium: 860mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 40% DV
- Calcium: 20% DV
- Iron: 20% DV
Leave a Comment