Yeehaw! Here’s a hearty, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd: Cowboy Steak and Potato Casserole. This dish layers juicy steak, crispy potatoes, cheese, and bold, smoky flavors — comfort food with a rugged twist.
🥩🥔 Cowboy Steak and Potato Casserole
🕒 Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 6–8
🧾 Ingredients:
For the potatoes:
-
4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russets)
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tsp smoked paprika
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
Salt & pepper to taste
For the steak:
-
1½ lbs steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank), cut into bite-sized cubes
-
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-
1 tsp steak seasoning or BBQ rub
-
Salt & pepper to taste
Other ingredients:
-
1 small onion, diced
-
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
-
1–2 cups shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
-
½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional but encouraged)
-
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
-
Optional: chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or BBQ sauce drizzle
🔥 Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 casserole dish.
2. Roast the potatoes:
-
Toss diced potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and fork-tender.
-
Shortcut: You can also par-cook potatoes in the microwave or boil for 8–10 minutes to save time.
3. Sear the steak:
-
While potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Season steak cubes with Worcestershire, steak seasoning, salt, and pepper.
-
Sear in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still slightly pink in the center (they’ll finish cooking in the oven).
4. Sauté veggies (optional):
-
In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened.
5. Assemble the casserole:
-
In the greased baking dish, layer roasted potatoes, steak cubes, sautéed onions/peppers, and crumbled bacon (if using).
-
Sprinkle cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake:
-
Return to oven for 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Finish and serve:
-
Garnish with green onions, jalapeños, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce or ranch.
-
Serve hot with a side salad, grilled corn, or baked beans.
🤠 Variations:
-
Spicy Cowboy: Add chipotle powder, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese.
-
Creamy Cowboy: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or ranch into the casserole before topping with cheese.
-
Veggie boost: Add corn, black beans, or sautéed mushrooms.