Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole
A hearty and cheesy Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole made with seasoned ground beef, beans, and creamy mashed potatoes. Easy to make and full of comfort!
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) pinto or black beans, drained
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or fresh)
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook ground beef with onion and garlic in a skillet until browned. Drain fat.
Add beans, tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
In a casserole dish, spread beef mixture evenly.
Top with mashed potatoes, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
This casserole freezes well in portions for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole
Table of Contents
Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole is the kind of meal that brings comfort, flavor, and serious satisfaction to the dinner table. Loaded with creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and classic cowboy ingredients like beans and tomatoes, this casserole is easy to make and guaranteed to fill hungry bellies — on a budget.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make it from scratch, how to customize it, and how to store leftovers like a pro.
Why You’ll Love Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole
A Complete Meal in One Dish
This casserole combines protein, starch, and vegetables in every bite. No need for extra sides — just serve and enjoy.
Comfort Food Made Easy
Mashed potatoes, beef, cheese, and savory toppings… what’s not to love? It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug.
Affordable & Family-Friendly
Using basic ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and canned beans makes this meal perfect for students, big families, or anyone watching their grocery budget.
👉 Craving more cowboy-style comfort food? Don’t miss this Cowboy Crock Pot Casserole — a slow-cooked, cheesy favorite packed with beef, beans, and potatoes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creamier mash)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions or parsley, for garnish
How to Make Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole
1️⃣ Cook the Beef
In a skillet, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2️⃣ Add Beans and Tomatoes
Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes to blend flavors.
3️⃣ Prepare the Casserole
In a baking dish, spread the beef and bean mixture evenly. Top with mashed potatoes, then sprinkle cheese over the top.
4️⃣ Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Let rest for a few minutes, then top with chopped green onions or fresh parsley before serving.
Variations & Tips
Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Great way to use up leftovers from the holidays or meal prep. Just reheat slightly to spread more easily.
Make It Spicy
Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or use pepper jack cheese for a kick.
Swap the Protein
Try ground turkey, shredded chicken, or plant-based alternatives to suit your dietary needs.
What to Serve With Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole
While it’s a full meal on its own, you can serve it with:
- A side salad
- Roasted green beans or broccoli
- Cornbread or dinner rolls
How to Store & Reheat
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQ
What is the cowboy casserole?
Cowboy casserole is a hearty, baked dish that typically includes ground beef, beans, tomatoes, cheese, and a potato topping — often tater tots or mashed potatoes. It’s a comfort food classic, loved for its flavor and simplicity.
What is in Cracker Barrel loaded mashed potatoes?
Cracker Barrel’s loaded mashed potatoes usually include creamy mashed potatoes topped with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions. It’s a rich and satisfying side dish that pairs well with grilled or roasted meats.
Why do people add sour cream to mashed potatoes?
Sour cream adds creaminess, tang, and moisture to mashed potatoes. It enhances the flavor and texture, making the mash smoother and more flavorful — especially when paired with butter and garlic.
What does adding an egg to mashed potatoes do?
Adding an egg to mashed potatoes helps bind the mixture, especially when baking the mash in casseroles or croquettes. It also adds richness and structure, giving the potatoes a firmer texture when cooked.
Final Thoughts
This Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole is everything you want in a comforting, one-dish meal: cheesy, hearty, affordable, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for the family or batch prepping meals for the week, this casserole delivers bold flavor and serious comfort every single time.
👉 This recipe was also featured on Medium — check it out!