Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 45 minutes

This savory casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and seasoned ground beef, all topped with melted cheese and crispy French fried onions for the perfect comfort dish. It's the ideal family meal, filling and delicious!

Ingredients (Yields 8 Servings)

• Cooking spray
• 6 strips of bacon
• 2 pounds baking potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 (5 ounce) can evaporated milk or whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup frozen whole kernel corn
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar or pepper Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup canned French fried onions
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray and set it on a baking sheet.

Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crispy, about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the skillet, and chop the bacon once it cools enough to handle.

Step 3: While the bacon cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped potatoes and return the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes, covered, until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add evaporated milk, butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in 1/4 cup of the chopped bacon.

Step 4: In the same skillet used for the bacon, add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until the meat is browned and fully cooked, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add the corn, garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Stir in the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 6: Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the beef completely.

Step 7: Sprinkle shredded cheese, the remaining bacon, and French fried onions on top of the mashed potatoes. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meat mixture is bubbly and the cheese is melted.

Step 8: Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 451
• Total Fat: 21g (27% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (46% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 79mg (26% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 852mg (37% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g (15% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (15% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 26g (52% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 25mg (27% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 167mg (13% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (20% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1126mg (24% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin of the Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole

The Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole is a modern twist on classic American comfort food. Its origins are deeply rooted in the rustic and hearty meals of the American West. Cowboys, who spent long days on cattle drives and working the range, needed food that was simple to prepare but would provide lasting energy. The dish reflects the use of basic, durable ingredients like potatoes, meat, and vegetables, combined with savory elements such as bacon and cheese. Though its exact origin is unclear, it likely evolved from earlier cowboy-style "one-pot" meals that incorporated the convenience of layering ingredients for baking. Over time, variations of this casserole have appeared in home kitchens and restaurants, particularly in the Southwest and Southern United States, where hearty casseroles are a beloved tradition.

Regional Variations

The Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole has several regional adaptations depending on local ingredients and culinary influences. In the Southwest, you may find the addition of spicy elements such as jalapeos, cumin, or chili powder to give the dish a bold, fiery flavor. On the other hand, in the Southern U.S., it may be served with a topping of cornbread or alongside sides like collard greens or cornbread muffins. In some areas, ranch-style beans or barbecue sauce might make an appearance, highlighting the region's affinity for smoky, tangy flavors. These variations make the dish versatile and reflective of different regional tastes, but the core ingredientspotatoes, meat, and cheeseremain consistent.

What Sets It Apart

The Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole stands out from similar dishes like Shepherds Pie or Cottage Pie due to its unique blend of flavors and ingredients. While Shepherds Pie traditionally features lamb (or beef in some variations) and a layer of mashed potatoes, the Cowboy version incorporates a smoky, beefy base flavored with bacon, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. The addition of corn and bell peppers also adds a sweetness and texture not found in traditional pies. Furthermore, the casserole is topped with crispy fried onions, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy mashed potatoes. This combination of savory, smoky, and sweet elements is what gives the Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole its distinct, bold character.

Where Is It Typically Served?

The Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole is a popular dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and casual dinners. It is often served at barbecues or cookouts, where its hearty, filling nature makes it a crowd-pleaser. In addition to being a favorite in Southern and Western U.S. homes, it also appears in comfort food-focused restaurants, especially in the fall and winter months when people crave warm, comforting meals. It's the perfect dish for a cozy evening with friends or family, often paired with a side salad, cornbread, or even a cold beer. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it ideal for any occasion that calls for a substantial meal.

Fun Facts

• The dish is often referred to as a "Cowboy" casserole because it reflects the simple, rustic meals that were staples for cowboys during their long treks across the American West.
• While potatoes were a staple in cowboy meals, the addition of corn and bell peppers gives the casserole a modern twist that mirrors the multicultural influences in American cuisine.
• The crispy French-fried onions on top are a fun and unexpected addition that adds both texture and a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of the iconic green bean casserole often seen at holiday dinners.
• This casserole is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, making it an efficient and delicious meal that stretches your ingredients further.

Whether you're cooking for a crowd or preparing a family meal, the Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole is sure to be a hit with its rich flavors and satisfying layers. Its a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary!

FAQ about Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Comments