Cowboy Casserole Recipe: Cowboy casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish packed with ground beef, crispy tater tots, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce. It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight, potluck, or when you just want some good old-fashioned comfort food. This dish is easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a family favorite!
Ingredients for Cowboy Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious cowboy casserole:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits for extra smokiness
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers for more flavor
- 1 teaspoon chili powder for added heat
- ½ cup black beans for a Tex-Mex twist
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the creamy sauce and stir well.
- Fold in the drained corn (and any other optional ingredients like beans or bell peppers).
- Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Tater Tots
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the tater tots.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Casserole
✔ Use crispy tater tots – Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even crispiness.
✔ Try different cheeses – Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack all work great!
✔ Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready.
✔ Add a crunch – Top with crushed tortilla chips or French fried onions before baking for extra texture.
FAQs about Cowboy Casserole Recipe
What is a cowboy casserole?
A cowboy casserole is a hearty, oven-baked dish that typically features ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese, layered between crushed tortilla chips or tater tots. It’s known for its robust flavors and is a popular comfort food in many households.
What ingredients do I need for a cowboy casserole?
To make a classic cowboy casserole, you will need ground beef, onion, garlic, canned beans (like kidney or pinto), corn, cheese (such as cheddar), and a base of tortilla chips or tater tots. Spices such as chili powder, cumin, and salt add extra flavor. Optional additions include bell peppers, jalapeños, and sour cream.
How long does it take to prepare and cook a cowboy casserole?
Preparation time for a cowboy casserole is typically about 15-20 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30-45 minutes in the oven. This can vary slightly depending on the recipe and oven differences.
Can I make cowboy casserole ahead of time?
Yes, cowboy casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold from the fridge.
Is cowboy casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Cowboy casserole freezes well. Simply cool the cooked casserole, wrap it securely in foil or freezer-safe wrap, and freeze. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
What are some variations of cowboy casserole?
Variations of cowboy casserole can include using different types of meat like turkey or chicken, incorporating various beans, or adding vegetables such as spinach or zucchini. Some people like to top their casserole with avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole for a fresh twist.
What can I serve with cowboy casserole?
Cowboy casserole can be a standalone dish, but it pairs well with simple sides like a green salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables. For a more filling meal, serve with cornbread or a side of rice.
This cowboy casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor. Try it today, and let me know how it turns out!
