Why Make This Recipe
Cowboy Casserole is a delicious, hearty dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you might already have at home. With layers of beef, creamy soup, cheese, and crispy tater tots, this casserole is a favorite for family gatherings and busy weeknights. It’s a complete meal in one dish that kids and adults both love!
How to Make Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound ground beef (85/15 lean)
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2/3 cup condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks until it is nicely browned and has no pink left.
- Add corn, cream of mushroom soup, half of the cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, onion powder, black pepper, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir everything until well mixed.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, then arrange the tater tots in a single layer over everything.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy on top.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle any remaining cheese over the hot tater tots. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes until the cheese melts.
How to Serve Cowboy Casserole
Serve Cowboy Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Cowboy Casserole
Allow leftover Cowboy Casserole to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Cowboy Casserole
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Variation
You can customize Cowboy Casserole in many ways. Try using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake as directed.
2. Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tater tots if you have them. Just adjust your baking time as needed to ensure they’re crispy.
3. Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for the soup.
Cowboy Casserole
A hearty casserole with layers of beef, creamy soup, cheese, and crispy tater tots, perfect for family gatherings.
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound ground beef (85/15 lean)
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2/3 cup condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up until browned and no pink remains.
- Add corn, cream of mushroom soup, half of the cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, onion powder, black pepper, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir until well mixed.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and arrange the tater tots in a single layer over everything.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle any remaining cheese over the tater tots. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes until the cheese melts.
Notes
Pairs well with a green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: casserole, cowboy casserole, comfort food, easy recipe, family dinner
I’m definitely going to try this