Hearty Cowboy Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and flavorful slow-cooked dish combining ground beef, tender potatoes, carrots, black eyed peas, corn, and a blend of aromatic spices. This comforting casserole is topped with melted cheese for a satisfying finish, perfect for a cozy family meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
Vegetables and Legumes
- 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 (15oz) can black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
Seasonings and Toppings
- 4 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and kosher salt, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Casserole Base: Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a crock-pot. Add the sliced Yukon gold potatoes, carrot rounds, tomato paste, diced tomatoes with juices, black eyed peas, corn, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the crock-pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender and the flavors have melded together. Taste and adjust salt or seasonings as needed.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese has melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Carefully remove the lid and serve the casserole hot for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño.
- The casserole is great for meal prep and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and increase black eyed peas and corn.
- Use sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend cheese for more flavor.
