Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole Recipe
The Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Featuring layers of crispy tater tots, seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices, it’s an effortless comfort food made in your slow cooker. Customizable toppings like diced tomatoes or jalapeños add a fresh or spicy kick. This one-pot meal delivers satisfying flavors with minimal prep and cleanup. It’s a guaranteed favorite for lovers of cheesy, meaty casseroles!
Ingredients,:
32 oz. bag of frozen tater tots (do not thaw)
1 lb. ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 oz. taco seasoning mix (I recommend Lawry’s)
Water (refer to your taco mix instructions; my packet required 2/3 cup)
16 oz. sour cream
8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, divided (half mixed in and half for topping)
1/8 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. onion powder
Optional Toppings:
Diced tomatoes
Additional bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Prep Your Slow Cooker:
Spray a 6-quart oval slow cooker with non-stick spray. Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly at the bottom.
2. Cook the Meat Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions and green bell pepper. Once browned, drain excess fat.
Add water according to your taco seasoning packet (e.g., 2/3 cup) and stir in the seasoning. Cook until the mixture thickens.
3. Assemble the Layers:
Spread the meat mixture evenly over the tater tots in the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix sour cream, salt, pepper, onion powder, and half the shredded cheese (about 1 cup). Spread this cheesy mixture over the meat layer.
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4.5 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking!
5. Add Cheese Topping:
After 4.5 hours, sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover and let it melt for 5-10 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top the casserole with diced tomatoes or extra bell peppers for added flavor.
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Make this easy and indulgent Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole today guaranteed to become a family favorite!
