Description
Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed twist on the classic mashed potato casserole, infusing it with the bold tastes of the Wild West. This comfort food masterpiece combines tender, creamy mashed potatoes with a savory beef mixture, melted cheese, and a crunchy topping.
Ingredients
- 2 pound russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped (divided)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup French fried onions
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, about 10 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels, chop it up, and reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the evaporated milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup of the chopped bacon and set the potatoes aside.
3. In the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Toss in the corn, garlic, and smoked paprika, and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix to ensure all the flavors are well incorporated.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish, then spread the beef mixture evenly in the dish. Top the beef with the creamy mashed potatoes, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining chopped bacon. Finally, sprinkle the French fried onions over the top.
6. Place the baking dish on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted to perfection. Before serving, garnish with the fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside your favorite cornbread or biscuits to soak up every last bit of that irresistible cheesy goodness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg