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Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

5 from 80 reviews

This hearty Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes with flavorful ground beef, sweet corn, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes and Dairy

  • 2 lb russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (frozen or drained canned)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish

Seasonings and Oil

  • 1 tsp salt, divided to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp neutral oil or soft butter for greasing the dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with neutral oil or soft butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed russet potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. Drain them well to remove excess water.
  3. Mash Potatoes: While the potatoes are still hot, mash them with unsalted butter, warm milk, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Cook Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, corn kernels, remaining salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more to combine the flavors, then remove from heat.
  5. Assemble Casserole: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Dollop and smooth the mashed potatoes over the top, creating an even layer. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potato layer.
  6. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven until heated through and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden, about 20 to 25 minutes.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. Then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top so it melts with the residual heat. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions.
  8. Serve: Serve the casserole warm and enjoy the comforting flavors and creamy texture.

Notes

  • Mash the potatoes while they are hot for the creamiest texture.
  • Using freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Adding a spoonful of sour cream to the mashed potatoes can provide a tangy richness.
  • Allow the baked casserole to rest for a few minutes to help it set and hold together when sliced.

Keywords: Cowboy casserole, mashed potato casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy mashed potatoes, comfort food, American casserole