Get ready to transport your taste buds to the rustic countryside with this mouthwatering South Country Cowpie – a dish that's about to become your new comfort food obsession! Imagine layers of perfectly seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese coming together in one irresistible casserole that'll have your family fighting for seconds. This isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines simplicity with incredible flavor, perfect for those nights when you crave something truly satisfying and homemade.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the beef and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef and onion mixture. Return the skillet to the stove and add Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
- Season the beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Layer the corn evenly over the beef mixture, creating a consistent vegetable layer.
- Spread the mashed potatoes carefully over the corn, creating a smooth and even top layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mashed potato layer, covering the entire surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cowpie rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Serve hot, cutting into square portions that showcase the layered beef, corn, and potato composition.
Tips
- Drain the beef thoroughly to prevent a watery base and ensure a rich, concentrated flavor.
- Use freshly mashed potatoes for the best texture and taste – avoid instant mashed potatoes if possible.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or dried herbs to the beef mixture.
- Let the dish rest after baking to allow the layers to set and make cutting easier.
- Choose a sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor impact.
- For a crispy top, broil the cheese for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- This dish freezes beautifully – make an extra batch for quick future meals.
- Serve with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the hearty casserole.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 535kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 34g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 110mg
