Description
Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting slow-cooker dish packed with ground beef, beans, corn, mixed vegetables, and a flavorful blend of ranch and taco seasonings. Topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and crispy tater tots, this casserole is perfect for an effortless family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
Seasonings
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
Optional Garnishes
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Combine the Ingredients: Transfer the cooked beef, onion, and garlic mixture into your slow cooker. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juices), mixed vegetables, ranch seasoning, and taco seasoning. Stir thoroughly to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole mixture to ensure a rich cheesy layer.
- Layer the Tater Tots: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, closely packed layer on top of the cheese-covered mixture to create a crispy topping.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Cook until tater tots are golden and crispy and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot, with optional sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley as garnish for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Notes
- For a thicker casserole, reduce the amount of liquid in diced tomatoes or drain some juice before adding.
- Feel free to substitute different frozen vegetables based on preference or availability.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy taco seasoning mix.
- The casserole can be prepared in advance; just assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate before cooking.
- Always check the tater tots at the end of cooking to ensure they have reached your preferred crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
