Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Close up of cowboy casserole on a plate.

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Cowboy casserole combines ground beef, bacon, beans, and potatoes with classic southwestern flavors and BBQ sauce to create a zesty dish that makes an easy crock pot meal every time.

Prep Time15

Cook Time4

Total Time4 15

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 538kcal

Author: Ryan Allen

Equipment

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
14 ounces smoked beef sausage
1 medium yellow onion diced
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes cubed
1 medium green pepper chopped
2 cups cheddar cheese shredded and divided
2 (15 ounce) cans of pork and beans
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
½ cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onions to the skillet. Cook until browned and onions are soft. Drain off excess grease.
Add ground beef, sausage, onions, potatoes, green peppers, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, pork and beans, black pepper, chili powder, yellow mustard, and BBQ sauce. Mix until well combined.
Cover and cook on high for 2½-3½ hours or low for 6-7 hours.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and cover for 10 minutes.
Serve while hot, and enjoy!

Notes

- Cheese matters: For the best texture and flavor, use a good quality cheddar cheese. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.

- It's all about the beef: Higher-fat ground beef, like 80/20, adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish. Leaner ground beef will work, too, but you might miss out on some of that cowboy comfort food taste. Just make sure to drain off all that excess grease. Nobody like a greasy casserole.
- Storing: Refrigerate this slow cooker cowboy casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost before reheating.

Nutrition