If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying dinner that’s sure to please the whole family, then look no further! This Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich, melty cheddar cheese. With layers of flavor and a creamy, cheesy topping, this dish is both filling and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family meal or a dinner party with friends, this casserole is bound to be a hit!
Packed with flavor, this recipe combines the best of comforting ingredients: potatoes, beef, cheese, and vegetables. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make and even easier to devour. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. So, let’s dive into this savory delight and explore just how to make this amazing Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole!
Ingredients for Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole
Before we jump into the cooking process, here’s a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef – Ground beef is the star of this casserole, providing protein and flavor.
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced – The potatoes create a soft, comforting base for the dish.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and flavor to the beef mixture.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped – Gives the casserole a nice crunch and fresh flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The cheese brings richness and a gooey texture that ties everything together.
- 1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and tang to the casserole.
- 1/2 cup milk – Makes the sauce smooth and creamy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Brings a savory flavor to the beef and potato layers.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a smoky depth of flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the casserole.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Add a bit of spice to balance the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for cooking the beef mixture.
- Cooking spray – Used to grease the baking dish and prevent sticking.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a casserole that will warm you from the inside out. Let’s now move on to the steps for making this Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole.
How to Make Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole
Making this casserole is easy and involves a few simple steps that come together to create a delicious dish. With a few layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese, you’ll have a comforting and hearty meal ready to serve in just over an hour. Let’s break it down step by step!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the casserole and ensuring that the potatoes cook through while the cheese melts beautifully on top. While your oven is heating up, prepare your baking dish by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. This ensures that the beef cooks evenly and is nice and crumbly. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 7-8 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onions have become translucent. The combination of beef, onions, and peppers creates a savory filling that will make your casserole taste amazing.
Next, season the beef mixture with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables in the seasoning. This blend of garlic powder and paprika adds depth to the flavor of the beef and brings out the savory richness of the dish.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Now, it’s time to layer the casserole. Begin by placing a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the greased baking dish. The potatoes will cook and soften as the casserole bakes, providing a hearty and filling base for the dish.
Next, spoon a layer of the cooked beef mixture on top of the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sliced potatoes on top. This layering technique ensures that each bite of casserole has a combination of tender potatoes, savory beef, and flavorful vegetables.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream and milk. Stir until smooth, and then pour this creamy mixture over the casserole, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula. The sour cream adds a tangy creaminess to the dish, while the milk thins it out to create the perfect consistency.
Once the sauce is spread evenly, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt beautifully as the casserole bakes, forming a deliciously gooey and golden topping.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and put it into the preheated oven. Bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The foil helps trap moisture, ensuring that the potatoes cook through while the flavors meld together.
After 40-45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking the casserole for an additional 10 minutes. This final 10-minute baking time allows the cheese to melt and bubble, creating a golden, cheesy crust on top that everyone will love.
Step 6: Let the Casserole Rest and Serve
After baking the casserole, take it out of the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut into serving portions. After the resting period, slice the casserole and serve it hot. You’ll have a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole
While this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, here are a few tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:
Use Fresh Potatoes
For the best results, use fresh potatoes and slice them thinly. Thinly sliced potatoes cook faster and more evenly, ensuring that they become tender as they bake. If you want an even quicker prep time, you can also use pre-sliced potatoes from the store, but fresh potatoes will provide the best texture and flavor.
Add More Vegetables
If you’d like to sneak in some extra vegetables, feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots to the beef mixture. This is a great way to add more nutrition to your meal while still keeping it flavorful.
Use a Variety of Cheeses
While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this casserole, feel free to experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste. Try using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. The melted cheese adds richness and creaminess to the casserole, making it a perfect comfort food dish.
Make It Ahead of Time
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it as directed, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Freeze for Later
If you want to make this casserole in bulk or save some for later, you can freeze it before baking. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it as directed.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
This Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole is a great source of protein and comfort food goodness. While it’s hearty and filling, it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Pair it with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables to make it a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
This Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple, satisfying, and delicious meal. The combination of beef, potatoes, cheese, and vegetables creates a savory dish that’s perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and guaranteed to become a family favorite!
For more amazing casserole ideas, be sure to check out these recipes:
This Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole is a classic comfort dish that will fill your home with delicious smells and make mealtime extra special. Enjoy this easy and satisfying meal with your loved ones – it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
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Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole – Comfort Food Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Hearty Cowboy Beef & Potato Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and savory dish perfect for family dinners. Ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese come together to create a mouthwatering meal your whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Layer the Casserole: Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of the beef mixture on top of the potatoes. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and milk, stirring until smooth. Pour the mixture over the casserole and spread evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
- Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as mushrooms or spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Cowboy Beef Casserole, Beef and Potato Casserole, Comfort Food, Hearty Casserole Recipe, Family Dinner, Easy Casserole, Cheesy Casserole, Beef Casserole