Crockpot Cowboy Casserole
Slow Cooker Sausage & Potato Casserole
Need a comforting meal that’s full of flavor and requires very little effort? This slow cooker casserole combines savory Italian sausage, tender red potatoes, sweet corn, fire-roasted tomatoes, hearty beans, and melted cheese into one delicious dish. It’s simple to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready with minimal hands-on time.
Unlike traditional casseroles that rely on tater tots, this recipe features sliced baby red potatoes for a heartier, rustic touch.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Italian sausage | 1 lb | |
| Yellow onion | 1 cup | Finely chopped |
| Salt | 1 tsp | |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | |
| Baby red potatoes | 1 lb | Thinly sliced |
| Green bell pepper | 1 | Diced |
| Kidney beans | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Drained and rinsed |
| Frozen corn | 1½ cups | |
| Fire-roasted tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Include juices |
| Fresh garlic | 2 tsp | Minced |
| Chili powder | ½ tsp | |
| Colby-Jack cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Fresh cilantro | As desired | For garnish |
| Sour cream | As desired | For serving |
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Sausage
Warm a small amount of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the sausage and diced onion. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with the salt and black pepper.
2️⃣ Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the cooked sausage and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
Add the sliced potatoes, kidney beans, bell pepper, corn, fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, minced garlic, and chili powder. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
3️⃣ Slow Cook
Cover and cook on HIGH for 2–4 hours or LOW for 4–6 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have blended together.
Sprinkle the shredded Colby-Jack cheese over the top. Replace the lid and continue cooking for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted.
4️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Ladle the casserole into serving bowls and top with fresh cilantro and a spoonful of sour cream if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal packed with bold flavors and satisfying ingredients.
