Cowboy Potatoes Recipe

Cowboy Potatoes

Cowboy Potatoes

Crispy potatoes, savory ham, bacon, sweet corn, melted cheddar cheese, and handcrafted smoked seasonings combine to create the ultimate comfort food side dish for cookouts, family dinners, and backyard grilling.

Quick Recipe

  • Prep Time - 20 minutes
  • Cook Time - 1 hour
  • Total Time - 1 hr 20 min
  • Servings - 8
  • Difficulty - Easy

Why You'll Love This Recipe

When I was younger, I spent several years working on a ranch in the Midwest. Long days called for hearty meals, and this recipe reminds me of those evenings around the table after a full day's work. Cowboy Potatoes has become one of our family's favorite comfort food recipes because it's simple to prepare, loaded with flavor, and perfect alongside grilled meats or as a meal on its own.

You'll love this recipe because:

  • Easy to prepare
  • Great for cookouts
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd
  • Loaded with smoky flavor
  • Uses simple ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup bacon (Optional) 
  • 1/2 red onion
  • 2 cups cooked ham
  • 6 large red potatoes
  • 1 cup frozen yellow corn
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 bag shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions


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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

  • Preheat oven 350 degrees.
  • Prepare pan with non sticking spray.

Step 2

  • Cube potatoes and layer on bottom of pan.
  • Season.
  • Layer cheese.

Step 3

  • Ham.
  • Bacon.
  • Onion.
  • Season again.

Step 4

  • Corn.
  • Butter.
  • Cheese.
  • Repeat until you reach the top of the pan.

Step 5

  • Bake for 60 minutes

🔥Smokehouse Kitchen Tips:

  • Cook the bacon until just crisp before layering.
  • Cut the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
  • Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Let the casserole rest for five minutes before serving.

Cooking Science

  • Why Freshly Shredded Cheese Melts Better

Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly because it doesn't contain the anti-caking agents often found in pre-shredded cheese. Those additives help keep the cheese from clumping in the bag but can also prevent it from melting into a creamy, even layer.

Recipe Variations

Try using:

  • Smoked sausage
  • Pulled pork
  • Leftover brisket
  • Ground beef
  • Jalapeños

What To Serve With Cowboy Potatoes

Serve alongside:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cowboy Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble everything. Refrigerate. Bake later.

Can I freeze it?

Yes.

Can I use frozen hash browns?

Yes.

Can I cook this on the smoker?

Absolutely!

Can I make it without bacon?

Yes.

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From The Smokehouse Kitchen

"This recipe reminds me of long days on a ranch and hearty meals shared with family. I hope it becomes one of those recipes your family requests again and again.
Thanks for cooking with us!" - Andy (Owner of The Original Cold Smoked Salt and Pepper Co.)
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