>
Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

par

Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole

When you need a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole has your back. This dish combines layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, smoky bacon, and creamy cheese sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an effortless dinner idea, this casserole is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

For Topping:

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Season the beef: Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

2: Mix the Sauce

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth.

3: Assemble the Casserole in the Slow Cooker

  1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray.
  2. Layer 1: Arrange a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread a portion of the soup mixture over the potatoes, followed by a layer of ground beef, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and a handful of crumbled bacon.
  3. Layer 2: Repeat the layers, adding corn and peas if desired. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of potatoes and the remaining cheese on top.

4: Slow Cook

  1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

5: Finish and Serve

  1. Once done, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top, replace the lid, and let it melt for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Tips

  • Use a mandoline for even potato slices: This ensures uniform cooking and a great texture.
  • Pre-cook the bacon: For the best flavor and texture, cook your bacon until crispy before crumbling it into the casserole.
  • Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Golds hold their shape well, while russets give a softer, creamier texture.
  • Add vegetables: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be included for a nutrient boost.
  • Prevent sticking: Greasing the slow cooker is key to easy cleanup and serving.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

  • Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

  • For long-term storage, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Variations

  1. Spicy Cowboy Casserole:
    Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  2. Vegetarian Option:
    Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
  3. Breakfast Cowboy Casserole:
    Swap the ground beef with breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs to the layers.
  4. Mexican-Inspired Twist:
    Use taco seasoning for the beef, and layer with black beans, diced tomatoes, and green chilies.
  5. Cheese Lovers’ Delight:
    Add more cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby for a gooier casserole.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)

FAQ

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work beautifully in this recipe, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

2. What size slow cooker should I use?
A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, but you can adjust the quantities slightly for smaller or larger models.

3. Can I skip the cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! Substitute with a homemade cream sauce made from butter, flour, and milk or cream.

4. Can I make this dish in the oven instead?
Yes! Layer the ingredients in a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top.

5. Can I add more cheese?
Always! More cheese never hurts—just make sure the layers remain balanced.

 

Laisser un commentaire