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Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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3.8 from 11 reviews

This hearty Crock Pot Cowboy Casserole is a wholesome one-pot meal combining ground beef, Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, black-eyed peas, and aromatic spices slow-cooked to perfection. Topped with melted cheese, it delivers comforting flavors ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 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
  • 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
  • 4 Tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 (15oz) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15oz) can corn, drained
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef and Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion; cook until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Stir in minced garlic and kosher salt, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Transfer to Crock-Pot: Move the cooked beef mixture into the crock-pot. Add sliced potatoes, carrots, tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes with juices, black-eyed peas, corn, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the crock-pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until potatoes and carrots are fork-tender and flavors meld.
  4. Adjust Seasoning and Add Cheese: Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt if desired. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top. Cover and continue to cook on high for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
  5. Serve: Once cheese is melted and casserole is hot throughout, serve warm and enjoy this comforting hearty meal.

Notes

  • Using Yukon gold potatoes provides a creamy texture that holds well during slow cooking.
  • Cheese is optional and can be omitted or substituted with a dairy-free alternative as desired.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or smoked paprika for extra heat and smokiness.
  • This recipe can be prepared in the morning and left to cook slowly throughout the day for convenient meal prep.
  • Ensure the crock-pot lid fits tightly to keep moisture and heat trapped for best cooking results.