Cheesy Southwest Beef and Potato Casserole: 5 Easy Steps to Perfection

Name: Cheesy Southwest Beef and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 cup (240ml) beef broth; 1 can (15 oz or 425g) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup (150g) corn, frozen or canned; 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese, cheddar or pepper jack; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt & pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for cooking

Posted on July 29, 2025

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty casserole, and let me tell you, this Amazing Cheesy Southwest Beef and Potato Casserole hits all the right notes! Picture this: layers of tender ground beef, creamy cheesy goodness, and perfectly seasoned potatoes, all baked to golden perfection. Honestly, the smell wafting through your kitchen will make your mouth water before you even take that first bite!

I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those busy weeknights when I needed to whip something up for the family. With just a few simple ingredients, I turned what could’ve been an ordinary dinner into a fiesta on our plates. Ever since, it’s been a staple in our home, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. Trust me, once you try this cheesy delight, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

This casserole is not only delicious but also super versatile. It’s great for families, potlucks, or just those nights when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, and everyone—from picky eaters to adults—will be reaching for seconds. So, let’s dive in and discover why this southwest-inspired dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: With just five simple steps, you can have this casserole in the oven in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Simple Ingredients: No need for elaborate grocery runs; most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dish fits the bill.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about this casserole; it’s hard not to love that cheesy goodness!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of seasoned beef, potatoes, and gooey cheese creates a comforting dish that you’ll crave again and again.

This recipe stands out because of its creative twist on traditional casseroles. By adding southwestern flavors—like chili powder and cumin—you’ll find a perfect balance between savory and cheesy. Plus, this isn’t just any ordinary casserole; it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. So, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Needed

This Amazing Cheesy Southwest Beef and Potato Casserole uses simple yet wholesome ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb (450g) ground beef: (use lean for a healthier option)
4 medium potatoes: (peeled and thinly sliced; Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
1 cup (240ml) beef broth: (homemade or low-sodium is ideal)
1 can (15 oz or 425g) black beans: (drained and rinsed for a nutritious boost)
1 cup (150g) corn: (frozen or canned; adds sweetness)
1 cup (100g) shredded cheese: (cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor)
1 small onion: (chopped)
2 cloves garlic: (minced)
2 tsp chili powder: (for that southwest kick)
1 tsp ground cumin: (adds warmth and depth)
Salt & pepper: (to taste)
Olive oil: (for cooking)

Feel free to customize this recipe! If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. And for those who love a little extra heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility!

Equipment Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth:

Large skillet: (for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic)
9×13 inch baking dish: (to layer the casserole)
Cutting board and knife: (for chopping vegetables)
Measuring cups and spoons: (for accurate ingredient measurements)
Aluminum foil: (to cover the casserole while it cooks)

If you don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish, you can use any oven-safe dish that has similar dimensions. And don’t forget a trusty spatula or wooden spoon for mixing!

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your casserole.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it up with your spatula. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
Layer the casserole: In your baking dish, start layering. First, place half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom, then top with half of the cooked beef mixture, followed by half of the black beans and corn. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, beans, and corn.
Add broth: Pour the beef broth evenly over the layered casserole. This will help cook the potatoes and infuse flavor into the dish.
Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

And there you have it! A delicious, cheesy casserole that’s ready to be devoured. Just a reminder: the potatoes should be fork-tender when you take it out of the oven!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

As with any recipe, there are always a few tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

Don’t rush the browning: Make sure to cook the beef until it’s nicely browned; this adds depth to the flavor.
Layer wisely: Layering is key! Make sure each layer is evenly spread out for consistent cooking.
Check potatoes: If you’re unsure about the doneness of your potatoes, poke them with a fork. They should be soft but not mushy.
Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. If you love heat, add more chili powder or some cayenne!

And don’t be afraid of trial and error. I’ve had my share of cooking mishaps, but that’s how we learn. It’s all about finding what works for you!

Variations & Adaptations

This casserole is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef for a mix of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
Different proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile.
Seasonal veggies: In the summer, you can add zucchini or bell peppers; in the fall, consider adding butternut squash for a sweeter taste.

These small changes can transform the dish, making it suitable for various diets and preferences. If you have any favorites, I’d love to hear about them!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

The best way to serve this Amazing Cheesy Southwest Beef and Potato Casserole is piping hot, straight from the oven! Pair it with a simple side salad or some cornbread for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top can add a nice finishing touch.

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later; just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. The flavors often get better after a day or two, so don’t hesitate to enjoy those leftovers!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This casserole is packed with nutrients! Here’s a rough breakdown:

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: High in protein from the beef and beans
Fiber: Thanks to the black beans and corn
Vitamins & Minerals: Loaded with essential vitamins from the vegetables and spices

It’s a filling dish that can fit into a balanced diet, especially if you’re looking for comfort food that doesn’t compromise on nutrition. Just keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re watching your intake!

Conclusion

This Amazing Cheesy Southwest Beef and Potato Casserole is truly a winner. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor—perfect for any night of the week. I love how easy it is to customize based on what you have on hand, making it a go-to for me and my family.

Try making it your own, and I’d love to hear how it turns out! Feel free to leave a comment with your variations or any tips you might have. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, frozen hash browns or diced potatoes work well; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this casserole gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check labels if using canned goods.
What can I substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option are great substitutes.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

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