When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals, few dishes deliver like a Southwest Beef & Potato Casserole. This dish combines the richness of seasoned ground beef, the heartiness of thinly sliced potatoes, and the bold flavors of tomatoes with green chilies, kidney beans, and corn. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and full of southwestern-inspired flavors.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or family gatherings, this dish is a go-to recipe when you need something filling, flavorful, and simple. Whether you serve it with a side salad or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish, it’s sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Southwest Beef & Potato Casserole

1. A One-Dish Wonder

This easy casserole recipe is a complete meal in one dish, meaning you don’t have to worry about multiple pots and pans. It’s protein-packed, loaded with vegetables, and perfectly balanced with carbs and fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying dinner.

2. Bold Southwest Flavors

The addition of diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, and black pepper gives this casserole a delicious southwest kick. The mild heat is balanced by the creamy elements, creating a flavorful yet comforting dish.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This dish stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep. The flavors actually improve as it sits, making leftovers taste even better the next day. It also freezes well, so you can make a double batch and save some for later.

4. Budget-Friendly and Customizable

One of the best things about this beef and potato casserole is that it’s made with simple, affordable ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to tweak based on what you have on hand:

• Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or sausage.
• Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack.
• Add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Make it vegetarian by using lentils or plant-based ground meat.

5. A Family Favorite

This cheesy, beefy, and slightly spicy casserole is something the whole family will love. Kids enjoy the cheese and creamy texture, while adults appreciate the hearty ingredients and bold flavors. It’s a win-win for everyone at the dinner table!

Ingredients

• Ground beef, perfect for a hearty base
• Onion, chopped for a savory flavor
• Fresh garlic, minced for aromatic depth
• Cream of mushroom soup, adds creaminess and richness
• Milk, to make the dish smooth and creamy
• Kidney beans, for added protein and texture
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies, bringing some acidity and spice
• Frozen corn, adds sweetness and a pop of color
• Chili powder, for warmth and a hint of spice
• Salt and black pepper, for seasoning
• Potatoes, sliced thinly for a hearty and filling component
• Shredded cheese, your choice (cheddar recommended) for a melty topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, frozen corn, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for a few minutes until well combined.
4. In the greased baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes, followed by half of the beef mixture. Repeat the layers.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	20g
Fiber	6g
Sugar	5g
Sodium	750mg

This Savory Southwest Beef & Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for a family meal or meal prep, this cheesy, meaty casserole will quickly become a dinnertime favorite!

How to Make the Perfect Southwest Casserole

1. Layering for the Best Texture

To ensure even cooking and a well-balanced bite, it’s important to layer the ingredients correctly. Starting with potatoes at the bottom ensures they absorb all the rich flavors from the beef and sauce, creating a perfectly tender and creamy base.

2. Cooking the Beef to Perfection

For the best texture and flavor, cook the beef with onions and garlic until it’s nicely browned. This step adds depth and richness to the casserole, making every bite savory and satisfying.

3. Using the Right Cheese

Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this dish because of its sharp flavor and excellent melting quality. However, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a little smoked gouda for an extra layer of complexity.

4. Baking for a Golden, Bubbly Finish

For the best results, bake the casserole covered at first to allow the potatoes to soften, then uncover it to let the cheese get golden and bubbly. This creates the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and slightly crispy textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Slicing Potatoes Thinly Enough

For even cooking, make sure your potatoes are sliced thin and uniform. If the slices are too thick, they may not cook through properly, leaving you with a casserole that’s uneven in texture.

2. Overcooking the Beef Before Baking

Since the beef will continue to cook in the oven, avoid overcooking it on the stovetop. Just brown it enough to develop flavor, then let the baking process finish it off.

3. Not Letting the Casserole Rest

It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

4. Using Too Much Liquid

While a little broth or milk helps keep the dish creamy, adding too much can make the casserole soupy instead of rich and hearty. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust only as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

3. Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Absolutely! Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

4. What Can I Serve with This Casserole?

While this dish is filling on its own, it pairs well with:

• A fresh green salad for a crisp contrast.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrients.
• Garlic bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce.

5. How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

If you love heat, try adding:

• More chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• Diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Spicy cheese like Pepper Jack or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

6. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Yes! Simply:

• Use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Replace the milk with unsweetened almond or coconut milk.
• Use a dairy-free cream soup substitute (such as blended cashews or coconut milk thickened with flour).

Conclusion: The Perfect Weeknight Casserole

The Savory Southwest Beef & Potato Casserole is a filling, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines classic comfort food with a bold, southwestern twist. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a hearty, cheesy finish, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or potlucks.

By following a few simple techniques, you can create a perfectly layered, creamy, and delicious casserole that everyone will love. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it to suit your tastes, this dish is guaranteed to be a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

So why wait? Try this recipe today and experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite!

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