Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Hero

Welcome, fellow food lovers, to the heart of comfort cuisine! If there’s one dish that truly embodies hearty satisfaction, minimal effort, and maximum flavor, it’s our incredible Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. Imagine a rich, savory ground beef mixture brimming with tender beans, sweet corn, and diced tomatoes, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just any casserole; it’s crowned with a blanket of melted sharp cheddar cheese and a crispy, golden layer of tater tots. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles to faces, warms bellies, and makes weeknights effortless.

This slow cooker recipe is a testament to the magic of set-it-and-forget-it cooking. After a minimal amount of initial prep on the stovetop – just browning the beef and sautéing the onion – your slow cooker takes over, transforming simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful, wholesome meal. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling after-school activities, a home cook looking for a no-fuss dinner, or simply craving something undeniably delicious and comforting, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is about to become your new favorite. It’s a true one-pot wonder (well, one skillet and one slow cooker!) that delivers big, bold flavors reminiscent of a hearty meal cooked over an open fire, but all from the convenience of your kitchen. Get ready to lasso up some serious deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole will earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation, quickly becoming a family favorite. First and foremost, it’s an absolute flavor powerhouse. The blend of chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika creates a deep, smoky, and slightly spicy foundation that perfectly complements the savory ground beef. Add in the tangy Worcestershire sauce and rich beef broth, and you have a symphony of flavors that meld beautifully over hours of slow cooking. Every spoonful is packed with a comforting, well-rounded taste that satisfies even the heartiest appetites.

Beyond its incredible taste, the convenience factor is unmatched. The slow cooker does 90% of the work, freeing you up to tackle other tasks, relax, or spend time with loved ones. Imagine coming home to the aroma of a delicious, home-cooked meal, ready and waiting. This is the dream that our Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole makes a reality. The initial browning step ensures depth of flavor, but once that’s done, it’s truly hands-off. It’s ideal for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or when you’re hosting and want a stress-free main course.

Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile and incredibly satisfying. It’s packed with protein from the lean ground beef and kidney beans, and fiber from the corn and tomatoes, making it a surprisingly complete meal. The melty sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful creaminess and tang, while the crispy tater tot topping provides that irresistible textural contrast that elevates a simple casserole into something truly special. It’s comfort food redefined, offering warmth, richness, and that satisfying crunch that everyone craves. Kids and adults alike will eagerly dig into a generous serving of this hearty cowboy casserole, making mealtime a breeze and a joy.

Why You Should Try This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole Today

If you’ve been searching for that perfect weeknight dinner solution – one that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly rewarding to eat – then this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is precisely what you need. It solves the perennial “what’s for dinner?” dilemma with grace and deliciousness. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its sheer practicality. It’s a fantastic meal prep option; you can brown the beef and chop the onion ahead of time, making assembly in the morning even quicker. Then, just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time.

This particular **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole** stands out because it combines classic, beloved flavors in a uniquely convenient way. Unlike many casseroles that require oven baking for a long time, this recipe leverages the consistent, low heat of your slow cooker to tenderize the beef and allow the spices to fully bloom and meld. The result is a richer, more cohesive flavor profile that simply can’t be achieved with quicker cooking methods. The tater tot topping, added towards the end, means they stay perfectly crispy rather than getting soggy from hours in the slow cooker, providing that coveted contrast to the creamy, savory base.

Moreover, this cheesy ground beef casserole is a budget-friendly option. Ground beef is an economical protein, and canned vegetables are always a smart choice for keeping costs down while ensuring you have pantry staples on hand. It feeds a crowd, making it perfect for families, potlucks, or simply ensuring you have leftovers for lunches throughout the week. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that offers exceptional value, both in terms of cost and the sheer joy it brings to the dinner table. Give this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole a try, and discover why it’s a true game-changer for stress-free, delicious dining.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole starts with selecting quality ingredients and having the right tools at hand. This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that are readily available at any grocery store, making it accessible to all home cooks. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this amazing one-pot dinner.

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 pounds lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15) to minimize excess grease. This is the hearty foundation of our cowboy casserole, providing rich flavor and protein. If you prefer a slightly lighter version, ground turkey or even a plant-based ground crumble can be substituted, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped: Onions add a crucial aromatic base and sweetness to the dish, deepening the overall flavor. Chop it finely for a more integrated texture or slightly larger if you prefer more distinct onion pieces in your **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole**.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is indispensable for its pungent, savory notes. Mince it finely to ensure it disperses evenly throughout the beef mixture. If you’re out of fresh garlic, about ½ to ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but fresh is always recommended for best flavor.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Diced tomatoes provide a touch of acidity and chunky texture, cutting through the richness of the beef. Keeping them undrained adds valuable liquid and flavor to the slow cooking process, ensuring the mixture stays moist and succulent.
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained: Kidney beans contribute to the “cowboy” feel, adding protein, fiber, and a satisfying texture. Rinsing them well helps to remove excess sodium and any starchy liquid. Black beans or pinto beans could also be used for a slight variation.
• 1 (15.25 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn): Corn adds a lovely sweetness and pop of color. Canned corn works perfectly here, but frozen corn is also an excellent option and doesn’t need to be thawed before adding.
• 1 cup beef broth: Beef broth is essential for providing the liquid base for slow cooking, infusing the entire dish with a deep, meaty flavor. Low-sodium beef broth is a great choice to control the salt content. Vegetable broth can be used in a pinch, but beef broth truly enhances the savory notes of this **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole**.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: This secret weapon adds an umami depth and a hint of tanginess that rounds out the flavors beautifully. Don’t skip it, as it contributes significantly to the complexity of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder: The primary spice for that classic “cowboy” flavor. Adjust to your preference – a good quality chili powder will make a big difference in the final taste of your hearty casserole.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Cumin brings warmth and an earthy aroma, perfectly complementing the chili powder and enhancing the overall savory profile of the beef and bean mixture.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Smoked paprika is a game-changer, adding a subtle smoky depth that elevates this casserole from good to extraordinary. It truly reinforces the “cowboy” theme and gives a hint of campfire flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors. Remember you can always add more at the end, but you can’t take it away!
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A standard seasoning that adds a touch of mild spice and balances the overall taste.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and provides a tangy, creamy counterpoint to the savory beef and vegetables. Dividing it ensures a layer within the casserole and a final golden topping. Freshly shredded cheese always melts better than pre-bagged!
• 1 (32 ounce) bag frozen tater tots: The star of the crispy topping! Frozen tater tots are convenient and cook up perfectly to create a delightful crunchy layer that contrasts wonderfully with the tender filling of the Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

• 6-quart or larger slow cooker: This is the hero appliance for this recipe. A 6-quart size is ideal for holding all the ingredients comfortably. If your slow cooker is smaller, you might need to adjust quantities or divide the batch.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Necessary for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onion before transferring to the slow cooker. A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even browning.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For breaking up the ground beef as it cooks and stirring the ingredients.
• Colander: To rinse and drain the kidney beans thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients, ensuring consistent results every time you make this **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole**.
• Ladle: For serving the finished casserole.
• Heat-resistant trivet or hot pad: To protect your countertop when serving the hot slow cooker.

Having these simple tools and fresh ingredients ready will make the preparation of your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole a smooth and enjoyable process, leading to a truly delicious meal.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Creating this irresistible Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the magic of slow cooking. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfectly delicious and comforting meal every time. Remember, a little upfront effort pays off with hours of hands-off cooking!

1. Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté the Onion:

   Begin by heating your large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the 2 pounds of lean ground beef. Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, break up the beef as it cooks. You want to brown it evenly until no pink remains. This step is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors that will permeate the entire **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole**. As the beef cooks, add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet. Continue to cook alongside the beef, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This dual cooking ensures both ingredients are perfectly prepared for the slow cooker.

2. Drain Grease and Add Garlic:

   Once the beef is fully browned and the onion is tender, it’s important to carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Too much grease can make your casserole overly oily. A simple way to do this is to tilt the skillet and spoon out the fat, or use a colander lined with paper towels (be cautious with hot grease). After draining, return the skillet to the heat (if it’s still hot from the beef). Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic to the beef and onion mixture. Cook for just an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly. Garlic burns quickly, and burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor, so watch it closely! You’re looking for that wonderful, fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen.

3. Transfer to the Slow Cooker:

   With the initial stovetop work complete, carefully transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into the bottom of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Spread it out evenly to form a base for the rest of your ingredients. This foundational layer sets the stage for the rich flavors of your **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole**.

4. Combine Remaining Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

   Now comes the easy part! To the slow cooker, add the undrained diced tomatoes (the liquid from the can is part of the flavor!), the rinsed and drained kidney beans, the drained corn (or frozen corn if using), the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Take your time to stir all these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. You want to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture so that every bite of your **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole** is packed with flavor.

5. Slow Cook to Perfection:

   Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Now, let your appliance do the heavy lifting! Cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the high setting for 3 to 4 hours. The mixture should be bubbling gently and the flavors should be deeply blended. The longer, slower cook time on “low” often yields a more tender beef and a richer, more developed flavor, but “high” works perfectly when you’re short on time. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often, as this releases heat and prolongs cooking time.

6. Add the First Layer of Cheese:

   Approximately 30 to 45 minutes before the end of the total cooking time (or when the beef mixture is hot and bubbly if cooking on high), it’s time for the first cheese layer. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef mixture in the slow cooker. Replace the lid and continue to cook until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. This typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This creates a wonderful cheesy layer that binds the flavors and adds creaminess to your **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole**.

7. Top with Tater Tots:

   Once the cheese has melted beautifully, arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer over the melted cheese. You can place them in a single layer or slightly overlap them if necessary to fit. The goal is to cover the top of the casserole as much as possible with the tots. Replace the lid and continue to cook for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are heated through and warmed. Some slow cookers might even crisp the tots slightly, depending on the lid fit and internal temperature, but the primary goal here is to heat them through. For extra crispiness, see our tips below!

8. Serve Hot and Enjoy!:

   Your incredible Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is now ready! Serve it hot directly from the slow cooker. Scoop out generous portions, ensuring everyone gets a bit of the savory beef mixture, the melted cheese, and the delightful tater tots. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some warm cornbread.

Enjoy the comforting flavors and the ease of this fantastic slow cooker meal!

Tips and Variations for Your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous tweaks and additions to suit your taste, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Here are some tips and creative variations to make this already fantastic dish even better!

Ingredient Alternatives and Additions:

• Meat Variations: While lean ground beef is traditional for this comfort food casserole, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground sausage (hot or mild, depending on your preference).
• Bean Power: If kidney beans aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap them out for black beans, pinto beans, or even a mixed bean medley. Each type will lend a slightly different texture and flavor profile to your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole.
• Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in more vegetables? Diced bell peppers (any color), sliced mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach (added in the last 30 minutes of cooking) would be delicious additions. You could also replace a portion of the corn with green beans.
• Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses! Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, pepper jack (for a spicy kick!), or even a smoked gouda could add unique dimensions to the creamy, cheesy topping of your **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole**.
• Broth Boost: For an even richer flavor, consider using beef bone broth instead of regular beef broth. It adds a more intense savory depth and potentially more nutrients.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a diced jalapeño (seeded for less heat, or with seeds for more), or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture. For a milder, smoky flavor, add a little extra smoked paprika.

Specific Versions:

• Vegetarian/Vegan Cowboy Casserole: This is entirely possible! Replace the ground beef with 2 cans of drained and rinsed lentils, or a plant-based ground crumble. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and omit the cheddar cheese, or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. Ensure Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly (some contain anchovies).
• Gluten-Free Cowboy Casserole: This recipe is naturally mostly gluten-free! Just ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free, and confirm that your Worcestershire sauce doesn’t contain wheat or gluten-containing ingredients (most are gluten-free, but always double-check labels). Tater tots are typically gluten-free, but it’s wise to check the bag.
• Extra Crispy Tater Tots: If your slow cooker doesn’t crisp the tots sufficiently, you have a couple of options:
  • Oven Finish: After the tater tots are heated through in the slow cooker, carefully transfer the entire contents of the slow cooker insert (if oven-safe) or scoop the casserole into an oven-safe baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
  • Air Fryer Finish: For smaller batches, scoop individual servings into an air fryer basket and crisp at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• Don’t Skip Browning the Beef: While it might seem like an extra step, browning the beef and sautéing the onion creates a crucial flavor base through the Maillard reaction. Raw beef won’t develop the same depth of flavor and can result in a less appetizing texture.
• Drain the Grease: Lean ground beef helps, but always drain excess fat after browning. This prevents your **Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole** from becoming greasy and heavy.
• Avoid Over-Stirring in the Slow Cooker: Once all ingredients are in and combined, try not to stir the mixture too frequently during the slow cooking process. Lifting the lid releases heat and extends the cooking time.
• Don’t Add Tater Tots Too Early: Adding the tater tots at the very end is key to their texture. If added at the beginning, they will become soggy and mushy. They need to go on top of the melted cheese to ensure they heat through and stay relatively firm.
• Adjust Salt to Taste: Different brands of beef broth, diced tomatoes, and even ground beef can vary in sodium content. Start with the recommended ½ teaspoon of salt, then taste and adjust seasoning before serving. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

By keeping these tips and variations in mind, you can customize your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole to perfectly suit your family’s preferences, ensuring a delightful and fuss-free meal every time.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Beyond its incredible taste and comforting appeal, our Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole also offers a range of nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome choice for your family dinner. While precise nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices (e.g., lean vs. regular ground beef, types of cheese), we can provide an approximate overview of what a serving might offer:

Estimated Nutritional Values (per serving, approximately 1/8 of the casserole):

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories
• Protein: Around 30-40 grams
• Fats: Roughly 20-30 grams (with leaner beef contributing less)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams
• Fiber: Around 5-7 grams
• Sodium: Varies depending on broth and canned goods, typically 600-900mg

Please note: These are estimated values and should not be considered precise dietary advice. For exact nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a trusted nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients you use.

Benefits of Key Ingredients in Your Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole:

• Lean Ground Beef: As a primary source of protein, ground beef is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily function. It’s also rich in vital nutrients like iron (crucial for oxygen transport), zinc (important for immune function), and B vitamins (which play a role in energy metabolism). Using lean ground beef helps to keep saturated fat intake in check while still providing these benefits for your hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole.
• Kidney Beans: These legumes are nutritional powerhouses! They are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and promote a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management. Kidney beans also provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, along with minerals like potassium and magnesium.
• Diced Tomatoes: Tomatoes are packed with vitamins, particularly Vitamin C (an antioxidant) and Vitamin K (important for blood clotting). They are also a significant source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to various health benefits, including heart health. The acidity of tomatoes also brightens the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
• Whole Kernel Corn: Corn contributes natural sweetness and is a good source of fiber, antioxidants (like lutein and zeaxanthin, beneficial for eye health), and some B vitamins. It adds a pleasant texture and vibrant color to the dish.
• Onion and Garlic: More than just flavor enhancers, onions and garlic offer a variety of health benefits. They contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Garlic, in particular, is well-known for its potential immune-boosting qualities.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: While higher in fat, cheese provides a significant amount of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. It also contributes protein and adds rich, satisfying flavor and texture to the Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole.
• Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika): These spices not only make the casserole incredibly flavorful but also come with their own health benefits. Many spices are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Chili powder and cumin, for example, can aid in digestion.

By combining these ingredients, this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole provides a balanced meal that delivers essential macronutrients (protein, carbs, fats) and a good dose of vitamins and minerals. It’s a comforting dish that also nourishes your body, making it a smart and satisfying choice for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

And there you have it! The definitive guide to making the most satisfying, effortless, and utterly delicious Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. We’ve explored every facet of this incredible dish, from the essential ingredients and handy utensils to detailed cooking steps, creative variations, and even its impressive nutritional benefits. It’s clear that this isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary hero designed to simplify your life while delivering maximum flavor and comfort.

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole lies in its ability to transform simple, wholesome ingredients into a deep, savory, and incredibly comforting meal with minimal hands-on time. The rich ground beef and vegetable base, infused with smoky spices and tangy Worcestershire, creates a truly irresistible foundation. Crowned with melted sharp cheddar and those delightful, crisp tater tots, it’s a texture and flavor explosion in every single bite. It’s a dish that truly feeds the soul and gathers everyone around the table.

So, whether you’re looking for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, or just a hearty meal to warm you from the inside out, this recipe is your answer. We encourage you to try this amazing Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole soon and discover the magic for yourself. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients or a spicy kick if you dare! It’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes your personal touch.

We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, tips, and any variations you tried in the comments section below. Your insights help our community of food lovers grow and inspire new culinary adventures. And if you enjoyed this recipe, please consider sharing it with your friends and family. Pin this recipe for later and explore more delicious, easy-to-make meals on our Pinterest page! For more hearty ground beef ideas, check out our Hamburger Green Bean Casserole or our fantastic Mini Taco Cupcakes with Zesty Ground Beef. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

This hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole features seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection and topped with gooey cheddar cheese and crispy tater tots. It's a comforting, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• 6-quart or larger slow cooker

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes undrained
• 1 15 ounce can kidney beans rinsed and drained
• 1 15.25 ounce can whole kernel corn drained (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
• 1 32 ounce bag frozen tater tots

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet with the beef and continue to cook until the onion is softened, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
• Carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the beef and onion mixture and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
• Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
• To the slow cooker, add the undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed and drained kidney beans, drained corn, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined.
• Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the high setting for 3 to 4 hours. The mixture should be bubbling gently and the flavors should be well blended.
• Approximately 30 to 45 minutes before the end of the total cooking time (or when the beef mixture is hot and bubbly if cooking on high), sprinkle 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef mixture in the slow cooker. Replace the lid and continue to cook until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, which typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
• Once the cheese has melted, arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer over the melted cheese. You can place them in a single layer or slightly overlap them if necessary to fit. Replace the lid and continue to cook for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are heated through and warmed.
• Serve the Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole hot directly from the slow cooker.

Notes

For a crispier tater tot topping, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish (after the cheese has melted and before adding tots) and top with tots. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy. This recipe is also great with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or cilantro when serving.

Keyword casserole, comfort food, easy, family friendly, ground beef, slow cooker, tater tots, weeknight meal