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.

Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole Made Simple & Delicious

Name: Cowboy Mashed Potato Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
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)

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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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.

Author: Larrouy Kary
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