Description
This hearty Cowboy Casserole combines ground beef, black beans, corn, mixed vegetables, and a flavorful blend of ranch and taco seasoning, topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and crispy tater tots. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a comforting and filling meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Toppings and Garnishes
- 2 cups frozen tater tots (or more, depending on slow cooker size)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat before proceeding.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture is fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients: Transfer the cooked beef, onion, and garlic mixture into your slow cooker. Add the drained black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with juices, frozen mixed vegetables, ranch seasoning, and taco seasoning. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker.
- Layer the Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese-covered mixture. Press them closely together to ensure the surface is mostly covered.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Cook until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: When ready, serve the casserole hot. Optionally, garnish with a dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped parsley to add a creamy texture and fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute homemade ranch and taco seasoning if you prefer to control the salt and additives.
- Depending on your slow cooker size, you can adjust the amount of tater tots used to ensure proper coverage.
- For a spicier casserole, add diced jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning mix.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; reheat in the slow cooker on low before serving.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the seasoning mixes are gluten-free or make your own from scratch.
