Description
A hearty slow cooker cowboy potato casserole made with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy family dinner, meal prep, or cozy comfort food night.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced or diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits, optional
- 1/2 cup corn or black beans, optional
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet with the diced onion and garlic until browned, then drain excess grease.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream soup, sour cream, milk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add a layer of potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Top with part of the cooked beef mixture, some creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add extra cheese during the last 15 to 20 minutes if desired, then cover until melted.
- Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Slice or dice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Always brown and drain the beef first for the best flavor and texture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, creamier melt.
- Avoid adding too much milk, or the casserole may turn watery.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg