Cowboy Style Beef and Potato Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in a comforting bake. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein and carbs for a satisfying meal.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep work.
Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully for delicious leftovers.
Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
Customizable – Adjust the seasonings or add veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients

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

Ground beef
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, diced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Butter
Shredded cheddar cheese
Heavy cream or milk
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
Paprika
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Cook the beef – In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
Sauté onions and garlic – Add butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened.
Season the mixture – Stir in Worcestershire sauce, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Prepare the potatoes – In a separate bowl, toss diced potatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the casserole – Layer half the potatoes in the baking dish, followed by the beef mixture. Repeat the layers.
Add cheese and cream – Pour heavy cream or beef broth over the casserole and top with shredded cheese.
Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.
Serve and garnish – Let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Spicier Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Vegetable Boost: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Different Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best, but red potatoes can also be used.

What’s the best cheese for this dish?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack or Colby Jack also work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer or add a little cornstarch slurry.

Can I add breadcrumbs for a crispy topping?

Absolutely! Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.

What side dishes go well with this meal?

A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair well.

Can I use pre-cooked beef?

Yes! Just warm it up before assembling the casserole.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add more cheese or an extra splash of cream.

Can I add bacon?

Yes! Crispy bacon bits add a delicious smoky crunch.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Ensure all ingredients, including broth and seasonings, are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Cowboy Style Beef and Potato Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or an easy-to-make potluck dish, this casserole delivers big on flavor and texture. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!