Cowboy Casserole Recipe

I remember the first time I whipped up a cowboy casserole. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm, comforting, and easy to feed my hungry crew. This dish, with its savory beef, creamy sauce, and crispy tater tot topping, was an instant hit! It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, no questions asked. As an food writer who loves cooking, I’ve tweaked this recipe over time to make it simple yet packed with flavor.

Whether you’re a busy parent or hosting a game-day crowd, this casserole’s got your back. It’s budget-friendly, versatile, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this hearty dish that’ll have your family begging for seconds!

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Break it up as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Mix the filling: In the same skillet, stir in corn, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly into the baking dish. Top with a single layer of frozen tater tots, covering the entire surface.
5. Bake: Pop it in the oven for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top and bake for 5 more minutes until melted.
6. Garnish and serve: Let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with green onions if you’re feeling fancy, then dig in!

Related Recipes:

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Pro Cooking Tips

• Swap the soup: If cream of mushroom isn’t your thing, try cream of chicken or celery for a different flavor.
• Cheese it up: Mix in some pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for extra stretch.
• Crispier tots: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep an eye out to avoid burning.

Variations

• Veggie boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the beef mixture.
• Spicy twist: Toss in a can of diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Breakfast style: Swap beef for sausage and add scrambled eggs for a morning casserole.

Storage Suggestions

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
• Freezer: Assemble (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

How to Serve

Serve cowboy casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a side of green beans, a crisp salad, or cornbread for a true Southern vibe. It’s a complete meal on its own, but a dollop of hot sauce or ketchup never hurts!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 980mg

Note: Values are estimates and vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make cowboy casserole ahead of time?
Yep! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 5-10 minutes if cold.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works great, though you might need a splash of oil to prevent sticking.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cream soup and check that your tater tots are certified gluten-free.

What if I don’t have tater tots?
No worries! Top with mashed potatoes or even hashbrowns for a similar vibe.

Conclusion

Cowboy casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and endlessly adaptable. It’s my go-to when I need a no-fuss meal that everyone loves. Try it out, play with the variations, and make it your own. Got leftovers? They’re just as tasty the next day. Happy cooking!