Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

My deliciously hearty, fantastically simple Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole recipe is the perfect rib-sticking fare for cooler weather.

This chunky, cheesy ground beef stew is loaded to the brim with tender potatoes, creamy pinto beans, sweet corn, charred tomatoes, and tangy pickled jalapeños.

No hunger is too big for this crockpot classic to beat!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

1. Budget-Friendly

With grocery prices seemingly ever on the rise, finding smart ways to stretch your proteins is a fantastic way to keep your budget in check.

For this slow cooker cowboy casserole, starchy potatoes, fiber-packed beans and pantry veggies turns a pound of beef into a feast that can feed the whole family—and then some!

2. Quick & Easy

One of my favorite things about crockpot meals is how speedy they are to prepare. With just 20 minutes of active effort, your work will be done.

All that’s left to do is let the slow cooker work its magic.

3. Cozy & Comforting

Slow cooker hamburger potato casserole is everything comfort food should be: warm, savory, creamy, carb-y and fantastically filling.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on
HIGH
Yields: 6–8 servings

Nutrition Facts (per serving – based on 8 servings)

Calories: ~375 kcal
Protein: ~21g
Carbohydrates: ~28g
Fat: ~21g
Saturated Fat: ~9g
Cholesterol: ~65mg
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~5g
Sodium: ~520mg

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1 lb ground beef – I typically reach for 85/15, but you’re welcome to use any lean/fat ratio you prefer.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – I love how soft and sweet yellow onions get when they’re cooked. Red onions have a similar flavor and consistency, whereas white onions are slightly sharper and retain more of their “bite.” Feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic or jarred minced garlic is my preference, but you can also use ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of fresh if needed.
• 2 tsp smoked paprika – For a hint of smoky warmth. You can use smoked hot paprika or ground chipotle powder if you prefer an extra bit of kick.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – If you’re using fresh, increase by 3x to match the potency of dried. 
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced – I think an all-purpose potato variety like Yukon Gold is the best option here. It offers plenty of starchiness while also holding its shape well. In a pinch, you can also use canned potatoes—just make sure to drain them well and slightly reduce cooking time.
• 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained – The fire-roasted element adds even more charred flavor, but regular diced tomatoes will work if needed. You can also swap in Rotel tomatoes with chiles if you like more heat.
• 1 cup frozen corn – One of my favorite pantry items! Frozen corn has a firmer consistency than canned, which means it can stand up to longer cooking times without getting mushy. Fresh corn kernels will also work beautifully.
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed – Pintos are a classic choice, but you can also use white beans like cannellini or great northern if needed.
• 3/4 cup sour cream – For a lighter dish with more protein, feel free to swap in whole milk Greek yogurt. You can also use your favorite dairy-free alternative.
• 1/2 cup whole milk – If you try using 2% or lower, the milk is likely to split during cooking. Canned evaporated milk is a good substitute.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) – Make sure to grate your own cheese for the best flavor! Pre-grated cheese is coated in starches that prevent it from melting as well.
• 1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeños (optional, for kick) – Optional, but great for adding tang and extra heat. For a milder option, a can of roasted diced green chiles will also work.
• 1/2 tsp liquid smoke (optional, for that “campfire” flavor) – Optional, but great for doubling down on the “campfire” flavor we’re after.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium and cook the ground beef with the onion and garlic until everything is browned and fragrant.

Stir in the paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, then drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Layer

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, and 1 cup of the cheddar.

If you’re feeling bold, add the pickled jalapeños and a splash of liquid smoke—they give the casserole a fun cowboy-campfire vibe.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Start with a base layer of potatoes, then spoon on half of the beef mixture.

Add half the tomatoes, corn, and beans, then dollop and gently spread half of the creamy mixture over the top.

Repeat the whole layering process once more, finishing with the remaining cheese so it melts into a gorgeous, bubbly topping.

Step 4: Cook

Pop the lid on and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are completely tender and the whole thing is hot and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Let the completed cowboy casserole sit for about 10 minutes so it can settle and thicken.

Scoop and serve with chopped scallions or fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

To stretch the meal even further, serve over mashed potatoes or steamed rice.

Optional Variations & Dietary Adaptations

Slow cooker cowboy casserole is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

Here are just a few ideas of ways you can customize it:

1. Vegetarian

Skip the beef and double up the beans, or use 1–2 cups of cooked lentils for a hearty, protein-rich base.

You’ll still get tons of flavor from the aromatics, spices, and smoky add-ins.

If you want a “meatier” consistency, finely chop and brown a pint or two of mushrooms at the beginning, then add the beans or lentils.

2. Dairy-Free

Use your favorite dairy-free sour cream alternative and dairy-free shredded cheese.

For the milk, swap in canned full-fat coconut milk or a full-fat, unsweetened cashew or oat milk (avoid low-fat options to prevent splitting).

3. Protein Swap

Ground turkey or chicken works great, though you may want to add a splash of oil when browning since they’re leaner.

For a smoky, cowboy-campfire vibe, you can also mix in a little cooked bacon or use ground bison.

4. Spicy

Use smoked hot paprika or chipotle powder instead of regular smoked paprika, add extra pickled jalapeños, or layer in a can of Rotel tomatoes with green chiles for a bigger kick.

For even more punch, use pepperjack instead of cheddar.

5. Southwestern

Swap the pinto beans for black beans, use Rotel tomatoes, and add a teaspoon of cumin.

Finish with Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a softer melt and Southwestern flair.

Expert Tips & Tricks 

Don’t skip browning the beef

It adds tons of flavor and prevents your crock pot cowboy casserole from tasting flat.

You want those little browned bits (fond!) that develop in the skillet—they’re pure flavor gold!

(To avoid dirtying an extra dish, use the sauté function on an Instant Pot, then swap over to the slow cooking function after browning.)

Grate your own cheese

It melts smoother and creamier than pre-shredded cheese, which is coated in anti-caking agents.

Plus, it’s usually cheaper and tastier—win-win!

Cut the potatoes evenly

Aim for similar-sized slices so they cook at the same rate.

If some are too thick, they may still be firm even when everything else is done.

A mandoline or food processor with slicer attachment takes all the guesswork out of it!

Check the potatoes, not the clock

Slow cookers vary wildly in terms of strength and heat.

Your casserole is finished when the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork and the center is hot and bubbly.

Layering matters

Building the casserole in layers keeps everything evenly distributed and prevents the creamy mixture from sinking to the bottom.

Dolloping and gently spreading the creamy layer helps it melt into all the nooks and crannies.

Use full-fat dairy

Lower-fat milk is more likely to curdle during long cook times.

Whole milk or evaporated milk will give you smooth, creamy results.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

Let the cowboy casserole cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container.

It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

The flavors actually deepen over time, making it an even better next-day meal.

Freezing

Hamburger potato casserole freezes beautifully!

Scoop leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, press out as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

For the neatest portions, freeze individual servings—perfect for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.

Move the frozen casserole to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.

Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain food safety and texture.

Reheating

Warm individual portions in the microwave in 60–90 second intervals, stirring halfway through for even heating.

For larger amounts, reheat in a covered baking dish at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

If you want to refresh the cheesy top, sprinkle on a little extra cheddar before baking.

FAQs

What is in slow cooker cowboy casserole?

Cowboy casserole is a hearty, comfort-food dish typically made with ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce to bring everything together.

It’s a cozy, one-pot-style meal that blends protein, veggies, and a little smoky flavor into one yummy casserole.

How can I make a budget-friendly beef stew?

Using ground beef (a.k.a. “beef mince” where I’m from) is one of my favorite ways to cut back on meat costs.

Hamburger meat is almost always less expensive than whole cuts!

This slow cooker cowboy casserole is a great recipe to try, as is my slow cooker beef enchilada casserole. 

Is cowboy casserole gluten-free?

It depends on the recipe!

My crock pot cowboy casserole recipe is gluten-free—just make sure you don’t have any issues with cross-contamination in the kitchen.