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Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole: A Hearty and Comforting Recipe for Any Occasion

Cowboy Potato Casserole

This hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole is perfect for busy days when you want a filling meal with minimal effort. Packed with ground beef, potatoes, and a creamy mushroom sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve it as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. Cook the Meat Mixture:
    In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    In a small bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Layer the Casserole:
    • Layer half of the potatoes in the bottom of a slow cooker.
    • Top with half of the meat mixture and half of the soup mixture.
    • Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, meat, and soup mixture.
  4. Cook:
    Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Add Cheese:
    Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the casserole and cook covered for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
  6. Serve:
    Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  1. Potato Prep: Cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly.
  2. Cheese Options: Feel free to swap cheddar cheese for your favorite variety, like pepper jack or mozzarella.
  3. Add Veggies: Toss in some frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots for extra nutrition and color.
  4. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
  5. Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and start the slow cooker in the morning.

Nutrition