Cowboy Casserole Recipe
A hearty and comforting casserole combining ground beef, beans, cheese, and tater tots. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and allows for creative variations.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet For browning ground beef.
- 1 Mixing spoon For combining ingredients.
- 1 Baking dish (9x13 inches) For assembling and baking the casserole.
- 1 Measuring Cups/Spoons Ensures accurate portions of spices and other ingredients.
- 1 Oven For baking the casserole to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef Lean ground beef works well; drain excess fat after browning.
- 1 can Cream of chicken soup Substitute with cream of mushroom for variety.
- 1 can Baked beans Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded) Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
- 1 bag Frozen tater tots (32 oz) Arrange on top for a crispy layer.
- 1 tsp Garlic powder Enhances savory notes.
- 1 tsp Onion powder Adds depth without chopping onions.
- Salt and pepper To taste Adjust seasoning as needed.
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup Crispy fried onions For added crunch on top.
- 1/4 cup Jalapeños sliced For a spicy kick.
- 1/4 cup Green onions chopped Garnish for freshness and color.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Preheat Oven :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brown Ground Beef :
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Prepare Base Layer :
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, cream of chicken soup, baked beans, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Assemble Casserole :
- Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Bake :
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Add Cheese :
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Optional Toppings :
- Add crispy fried onions or jalapeños for extra texture and flavor.
Garnish and Serve :
- Garnish with chopped green onions for color and freshness. Serve hot.
Notes
-
- Flavor Balance: Adjust seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder to suit your taste.
- Healthier Option: Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium baked beans.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Yes! Ground turkey reduces fat content while maintaining flavor.
-
How to make this dish gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and verify all canned ingredients are gluten-free.
-
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes for the best texture.
-
Can I freeze this cowboy casserole?
- Freeze in portions before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
-
How do I thicken the casserole base?
- Add a slurry of cornstarch and water during assembly if needed.
Tips & Tricks
- Layering Flavors: Brown ground beef with a pinch of garlic powder for deeper flavor.
- Topping Variations: Try cornbread crumbles or tortilla strips instead of tater tots for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Cheese Options: Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
- Serving Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic look or portion into individual servings for a more formal presentation.
- Pairings: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.