Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
This Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate hearty, no-fuss comfort food packed with bold flavor. Featuring tender potatoes, savory ground beef, smoky sausage, melty cheddar, and rich BBQ pork and beans, it’s the perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and satisfying. Great for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this casserole is a high-protein dinner recipe that tastes like it’s straight from a campfire. Whether you’re looking for homemade recipes, healthy recipes easy enough to toss in the crock pot, or just quick dinner ideas that everyone will love—this one checks every box.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 14 ounces smoked beef sausage sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes cubed
- 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded and divided
- 2 15-ounce cans of pork and beans
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert.
- Layer the cubed potatoes in the bottom.
- Add cooked ground beef, sliced smoked sausage, diced onion, chopped green pepper, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
- Pour in the pork and beans.
- In a small bowl, whisk together black pepper, chili powder, yellow mustard, and BBQ sauce. Pour evenly over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese on top in the last 15–20 minutes of cooking.
- Serve warm with cornbread, biscuits, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape well, but russet or red potatoes can also be used.
- Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce if desired.
- For a smoky twist, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; it also freezes well.