Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s not only hearty but also incredibly easy to make. This dish brings together the flavors of savory ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy tater tots in a fun and fulfilling way. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Casserole:
- Quick and Easy: It’s a one-dish wonder that takes just minutes to prepare!
- Hearty and Flavorful: The combination of beef, cheese, and tater tots creates a rich taste that’s satisfying.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and you’ll love how simple it is to please picky eaters.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven just before serving.
Ingredients Needed:
- For the Protein:
- 1 lb ground beef
- For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- For the Spices:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until well combined.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the drained corn, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Finally, arrange the tater tots evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Casserole
Serve Cowboy Casserole hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also add some hot sauce or fresh herbs like parsley for an extra kick of flavor!
Tips for Success with Cowboy Casserole
- Beef Alternatives: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cheese Choices: Mix different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Frozen Veggies: Feel free to add in other frozen veggies like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Deep Dish: Use a larger baking dish if you want to double the recipe for a crowd.
- Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting it cool for a few minutes allows the casserole to set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
Variations
For a southwestern flair, add black beans, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños to the beef mixture before baking. You can also replace tater tots with hash browns for a different texture.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cream of chicken or any other creamy soup you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Cowboy Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or use the microwave for quick warming.
Equipment
- skillet
- Spatula or spoon
- baking dish
- Oven
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until well combined.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the drained corn, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Finally, arrange the tater tots evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
