Cowboy Beef Potato Casserole: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Cowboy Beef Potato Casserole: the name alone conjures images of hearty meals enjoyed under vast, starlit skies. But this isn’t just a dish for cowboys; it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to potlucks with friends. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and a touch of zesty seasoning. Are you hungry yet?

While its exact origins are debated, the spirit of Cowboy Beef Potato Casserole undoubtedly lies in the resourceful cooking of the American West. Ranch hands needed filling, easy-to-prepare meals that could sustain them through long days on the range. This casserole, with its simple ingredients and satisfying flavors, fits the bill perfectly. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of cooks who could transform humble ingredients into something truly special.

What makes this casserole so beloved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The tender ground beef provides a rich, meaty base, while the creamy potatoes offer a comforting, starchy counterpoint. The melted cheese adds a gooey, decadent layer, and the subtle spices elevate the flavor profile without overpowering the dish. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Get ready to experience a taste of the Wild West with this delicious and easy-to-make casserole!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Ground Beef
• 1 large Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 (10.75 oz) can Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1 (10.75 oz) can Condensed Cream of Celery Soup
• 1 (10 oz) can Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided
• 1 tsp Chili Powder
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 5-6 medium Russet Potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Butter, melted
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped Green Onions, for garnish

Preparing the Beef Mixture:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. It’s important to get a good sear on the beef for maximum flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, brown the beef in batches.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), sour cream, ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. The mixture should be creamy and slightly spicy.
4. Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the beef mixture for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more chili powder for extra heat or a little salt and pepper to taste.

Preparing the Potatoes:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare the potatoes. Peel the potatoes and thinly slice them. You can use a mandoline for even slices, or carefully slice them with a knife. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices will ensure even cooking.
2. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with the melted butter, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the butter and seasonings. This will help them cook properly and add flavor.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Layer the Ingredients: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Begin by layering about one-third of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish, overlapping them slightly. This creates a good base for the casserole.
3. Add the Beef Mixture: Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the layer of potatoes.
4. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of one-third of the potatoes, overlapping them slightly. Then, spread the remaining beef mixture over the potatoes.
5. Top with Remaining Potatoes: Top with the remaining potatoes, overlapping them to cover the entire casserole.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of potatoes.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the potatoes cook through without browning too quickly.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
3. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The top should be golden brown. You can test the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the casserole. If the fork goes in easily, the potatoes are cooked.
4. Rest: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the beef mixture, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Use a different protein: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.
• Cream of chicken soup: If you don’t have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup.
• Crispy topping: For a crispy topping, mix crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

This Cowboy Beef Potato Casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own. However, it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as:

• A simple green salad
• Steamed green beans
• Corn on the cob
• Garlic bread

Storage Instructions:

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Conclusion:

This Cowboy Beef Potato Casserole isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a hearty, flavorful experience that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and that irresistible cheesy topping creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply divine. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you’re craving something truly satisfying. But what truly makes this casserole a must-try? It’s the ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavor payoff. We’re talking minimal effort for maximum deliciousness! Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it to your liking. Want to add a little kick? Throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Craving more veggies? Sauté some onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms and mix them in with the beef. The possibilities are endless! For serving suggestions, this casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives adds a touch of elegance. And for those who love a little extra crunch, crushed potato chips or French-fried onions sprinkled on top before baking take it to the next level. Beyond the basic recipe, consider these variations to truly make it your own. For a spicier version, use chorizo instead of ground beef and add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use low-fat cheese. And for a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with lentils or black beans and add extra vegetables. I truly believe that this Cowboy Beef Potato Casserole is a winner. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, creating warm memories around the dinner table. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and bake it just before serving, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to make it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried, what you served it with, and how much your family enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Cowboy Beef Potato Casserole success!

Print