When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a Cowboy Steak and Potato Casserole. This delicious casserole brings together the richness of tender ground beef, savory onions and garlic, crispy potatoes, and gooey melted cheddar cheese, all baked together to create a dish that’s both flavorful and filling. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Steak and Potato Casserole
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it combines the best of two classic comfort foods—meatloaf and crispy potatoes—into one easy-to-make dish. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible to cooks of all levels, while the bold flavors are sure to impress even the most discerning taste buds.
Ground beef provides a rich source of protein, while potatoes add a satisfying starch component that makes this meal filling. The aromatic onions and garlic enhance the overall flavor, creating a savory base that pairs perfectly with the cheddar cheese topping. Whether served as a main dish for dinner or a hearty meal for a gathering, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilo ground beef (approximately 2.2 lbs)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 large potatoes, frozen and finely chopped (or fresh potatoes, diced)
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with about an inch of oil, ensuring the base is well-covered.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped garlic, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Shape and Layer the Casserole:
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish. Shape it into a loaf shape in the center of the dish.
- Arrange the frozen or chopped potatoes around the edges of the meatloaf, filling in the spaces around the sides. If you’re using frozen potatoes, ensure they are well-distributed. Season with salt to taste.
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook through while the potatoes soften.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the meatloaf and potatoes.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf is browned on top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
This Cowboy Steak and Potato Casserole is a hearty dish on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to balance the flavors. Here are a few ideas for complementary dishes:
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent side, buttery garlic bread is always a welcome addition.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy and tangy balance to the warm, savory casserole.
Conclusion:
This Cowboy Steak and Potato Casserole is a perfect example of comfort food that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese makes it a complete meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the hearty, flavorful goodness that comes from a well-loved classic.