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This Easy Crockpot Cowboy recipe is the perfect hearty, one-pot meal for busy days, packed with tender ground beef, diced potatoes, sweet corn, kidney beans, and melted cheddar cheese, all simmered in a rich beef broth with smoky spices. Itโ€™s a simple “dump and go” slow cooker recipe that delivers big flavors with minimal effort, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights when you want something warm, filling, and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Quick and Flavorful Crockpot Cowboy Recipe for Busy Days

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef or sausage
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ยฝ cups beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for spice)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the meat:
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Assemble in the Crockpot:
    Add the browned meat and onions to your Crockpot.
    Stir in the potatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), corn, beef broth, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using).
  3. Cook:
    Cover and cook on Low for 6โ€“8 hours or on High for 3โ€“4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Add cheese:
    About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt.
  5. Serve:
    Give it a gentle stir and serve hot. Enjoy!

5 Tips for Easy Crockpot Cowboy :

Brown the Meat First:
Always brown your ground beef or sausage in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. It boosts flavor and removes excess grease.

Cut Potatoes Evenly:
Try to cut the potatoes into equal-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly and prevents some pieces from turning mushy while others stay hard.

Layer Ingredients Wisely:
Place harder ingredients like potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot (closer to the heat), and softer ingredients like corn and beans on top to avoid overcooking.

Add Cheese at the End:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. Adding it too early can make it greasy or grainy.

Spice It Up:
If you like a little kick, donโ€™t be shy โ€” add extra chili powder, diced jalapeรฑos, or even a splash of hot sauce right into the crockpot.


Conclusion:

  • This Easy Crockpot Cowboy meal is everything you love about comfort food โ€” simple, filling, and packed with flavor.
  • Itโ€™s a no-fuss dish that makes everyone at the table happy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want leftovers for the next day, this recipe is a keeper.
  • Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!