Get ready to wrangle up some hearty, down-home flavor with our mouthwatering Cowboy Casserole recipe! Packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and zesty Tex-Mex flair, this satisfying dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy comfort meal, this cowboy casserole is guaranteed to hit the spot. So grab your apron and lasso, and let’s rustle up some deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained
- 3 cups small-diced peeled russet potatoes
- 1 medium onion, small diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 15.5-ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the diced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, drained kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of the Old West!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Heat: For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the casserole mixture.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add a teaspoon of chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika to the ground beef for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for a meat-free version.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, omit the kidney beans and reduce the amount of potatoes used. Increase the amount of ground beef and add extra low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower florets or broccoli.
- Low Carb Version: Similarly, for a lower-carb option, reduce the amount of potatoes and beans used in the casserole. Opt for low-carb cheese and use a smaller portion of the casserole per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes? A: Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the cheese topping, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply sprinkle the cheese on top and bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I customize the toppings? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite toppings such as sliced jalapeños, diced bell peppers, or crumbled bacon.
In conclusion, our Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the spirit of the Old West to your dinner table. With its combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and zesty Tex-Mex flair, it’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest of cowboys (or cowgirls!). Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy comfort meal, this casserole is a delicious and satisfying option. So round up your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the frontier with this hearty and delicious dish!