If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food recipe, then this Hearty Cowboy Casserole is exactly what you need! Packed with savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, vibrant vegetables, and melted Colby Jack cheese, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a satisfying meal for a potluck, this cheesy, protein-rich casserole delivers unbeatable flavor and warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cowboy Casserole
This Hearty Cowboy Casserole is a one-pot meal that combines meaty, cheesy, and hearty elements in one dish. It’s a perfect balance of savory, slightly spicy, and cheesy goodness that will leave you craving more. Here’s why it stands out:
- Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.
- Satisfying & Hearty – A protein-packed dish that keeps you full.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for family dinners, game nights, or gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this Hearty Cowboy Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 pound baby red potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Move the beef and onion mixture to a slow cooker. Add sliced potatoes, chopped bell pepper, frozen corn, kidney beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juice), minced garlic, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on high for 2-4 hours or low for 4-6 hours, until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Once cooked, stir the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon generous servings onto plates and enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm cornbread for a classic cowboy-style meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or green onions.
- Enjoy alongside a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef.
2. Can I make this casserole in the oven? Absolutely! Bake in a 375°F oven for about 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. What other cheeses can I use? Try cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.
4. Can I add extra veggies? Definitely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or jalapeños would make great additions.
5. Is this dish gluten-free? Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Hearty Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy families and anyone craving a warm, filling, and satisfying meal. Packed with flavor, protein, and cheesy goodness, this dish is bound to become a household favorite. Try it today and experience home-cooked comfort at its finest!