Go Back
A close-up shot of the hearty crockpot cowboy casserole, showing the rich texture of the ground beef and bean filling.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole: The Ultimate Hearty Dinner

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate dump-and-go meal! Packed with savory ground beef, beans, corn, and a cheesy tater tot topping, it's a hearty and family-friendly dinner recipe that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs lean ground beef 90/10 recommended
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 bag (24 oz) frozen tater tots

Equipment

  • 1 Slow Cooker 6-quart or larger recommended
  • 1 Skillet For browning the beef

Instructions
 

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat until beef is browned. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess grease.
  2. Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir in the BBQ sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, pinto beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix until fully combined.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
  4. Uncover and sprinkle with 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
  5. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 30-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

Notes

For crispier tater tots, place the oven-safe slow cooker insert under the broiler for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
QR Code linking back to recipe