Farmer’s Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish filled with layers of tender potatoes, fresh vegetables, and savory ground meat, all baked together with melted cheese on top. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers.
I love making this casserole when I want something simple but filling. It’s a great way to use up whatever veggies I have on hand, and the combination of potatoes and cheese keeps everyone happy and full. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that gets better the next day, so I always make extra to enjoy as leftovers.
My favorite way to serve Farmer’s Casserole is with a crisp green salad on the side and a slice of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. It feels like a meal made with care and always brings a smile around the table. If you’re looking for something easy, tasty, and down-to-earth, this casserole is a winner every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold or Russets for their creamy texture when baked. If you want a lighter option, sweet potatoes add a nice twist on flavor and color.
Ground Meat: Ground beef is classic, but sausage adds extra flavor. For a leaner or vegetarian version, try ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a sharp bite, and mozzarella melts beautifully for creaminess. You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or a mild provolone.
Sour Cream: It adds richness and tang. Greek yogurt works well as a healthier substitute without losing creaminess.
Bacon: Crispy bacon pieces bring smoky flavor and texture. For a vegetarian choice, skip bacon or add sautéed mushrooms instead.
How Do You Get the Potatoes Tender But Not Mushy?
Boiling diced potatoes just long enough to soften them without falling apart is key for this casserole’s texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut potatoes into even cubes, about 1-inch pieces, so they cook evenly.
- Place in boiling salted water and cook for 5 minutes. Check tenderness with a fork—it should pierce easily but the cubes still hold shape.
- Drain thoroughly and let them sit in the colander for a minute to dry off extra water.
This helps your potatoes stay creamy inside the casserole without turning to mush once baked.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I use it to cook the meat and sauté the onions and garlic, making everything flavorful right in one pan.
- Large pot – for boiling diced potatoes until tender, which keeps them from falling apart later.
- Mixing bowl – to combine sour cream, milk, and cheeses smoothly before mixing with potatoes and meat.
- 9×9-inch casserole dish – the perfect size to hold and bake the layered mixture evenly.
- Cooking spoon and spatula – for stirring ingredients and spreading them evenly in the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage for a leaner meat option.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauté with onions for extra veggies and flavor.
- Mix in some cooked corn or peas for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Sprinkle some hot sauce or paprika on top before baking for an extra kick of spice.
Farmer’s Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon pieces (reserve some for garnish)
- 3 green onions, sliced, for garnish
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh if available
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Farmer’s Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, 5 minutes to parboil the potatoes, and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, plan for around 45-50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish so your casserole won’t stick later on.
2. Cook the Meat and Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they get soft and clear. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add your ground beef or sausage. Cook it while breaking it apart with your spoon until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any extra grease you don’t want.
3. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the meat cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your diced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes — just until they’re tender but still hold their shape. Drain them well so they don’t make your casserole watery.
4. Mix It All Together:
In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, milk, half of the shredded cheddar, half of the mozzarella, parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the cooked potatoes and browned meat until everything is well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into your greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella on top, then scatter the reserved bacon pieces evenly over the cheese.
6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbling on the edges. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to settle.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh, tasty touch just before serving. This casserole is perfect with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for Farmer’s Casserole?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes work well and save prep time! Just thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole.
Can I Make Farmer’s Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk when reheating helps keep it creamy.
What Can I Substitute if I Don’t Have Sour Cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, offering similar creaminess and tang. Use the same amount called for in the recipe.