Cowboy Style Beef and Potato Casserole

Cowboy-style beef and potato casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese in a rich and savory sauce. This satisfying one-dish meal is easy to make and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling: Packed with beef, potatoes, and cheese for a complete meal.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spice it up with seasoning.
• Perfect for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Casserole:

• Ground beef
• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil or butter
• All-purpose flour
• Beef broth
• Heavy cream or milk
• Worcestershire sauce
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Bell peppers, diced
• Mushrooms, sliced
• Frozen peas or corn

Directions

Cook the Beef Mixture:

1. Brown the beef:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté onions and garlic:
   • Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add olive oil or butter and sauté the diced onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Season and mix:
   • Stir the beef back into the onion mixture. Add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

4. Make the roux:
   • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add liquids:
   • Gradually whisk in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Casserole:

6. Preheat the oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Layer the ingredients:
   • Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, then pour half of the sauce over the beef. Repeat the layers, ending with the sauce.
8. Add cheese:
   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Bake:

9. Bake the casserole:
   • Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve:

10. Cool and enjoy:
    • Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Vegetable boost: Include layers of spinach, zucchini, or broccoli.
• Cheese mix: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
• Taco twist: Season the beef with taco seasoning and add a layer of salsa for a Tex-Mex version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a lighter option.

2. What potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture when baked.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

4. How do I ensure the potatoes cook through?

Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook completely during baking.

5. Can I skip the heavy cream?

Yes, substitute with whole milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative.

6. What’s the best way to slice potatoes thinly?

Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for even, thin slices.

7. Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes, crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or fried onions make excellent toppings.

8. Can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

9. What pairs well with this casserole?

Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or cornbread for a complete meal.

10. How do I avoid a runny casserole?

Cook the sauce until thickened, and let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set.

Conclusion

Cowboy-style beef and potato casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s packed with comforting flavors and textures. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

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