Delicious Cowboy Casserole topped with cheese and herbs in a baking dish

Why Make This Recipe

Cowboy Casserole is a fantastic meal that is both simple and delicious. It combines hearty ingredients like ground beef and tater tots with creamy soup and cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for families and friends. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be made in just one dish, which means less mess and more time to enjoy with loved ones. Plus, it’s customizable based on what you have on hand!

How to Make Cowboy Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
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

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the drained corn. 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.

How to Serve Cowboy Casserole

Serve the Cowboy Casserole hot out of the oven. Cut it into squares and place it on plates. You can enjoy it as is, or add a side salad for a fresh touch. It also goes well with salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.

How to Store Cowboy Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Cowboy Casserole

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added nutrition.
You can use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to change the flavor.
To make it even quicker, you can use leftover cooked beef if you have it on hand.

Variation

For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with homemade or low-fat versions for a lighter meal.

FAQs

Can I make Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen corn. Just make sure to cook any fresh vegetables before adding them to the casserole.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. You can also check that the cheese is melted and bubbling.