why make this recipe

This casserole is simple, filling, and ready on a weeknight. It mixes seasoned beef, a creamy layer, and a biscuit crust. Many people like it because it is quick and uses pantry items. For an easy side idea, see a similar corn side recipe at Paula Deen corn casserole recipe.

introduction

Cattle Drive Casserole mixes ground beef, peppers, onions, cheese, and a biscuit crust. It cooks in one dish and feeds a family. The textures are soft biscuit, creamy middle, and meaty base. This dish warms well and makes good leftovers. For another simple casserole idea, check Paula Deen’s corn casserole page for inspiration.

how to make Cattle Drive Casserole

Make the biscuit crust first and par-bake it. Cook the beef and vegetables until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft. Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, chiles, and cheese for the creamy layer. Layer beef on the biscuit crust, add the sour cream mix, dot with salsa, and top with the rest of the cheese. Bake until hot and bubbly. If you want a step-by-step list and tips, see this related casserole note at Paula Deen corn casserole tips.

Ingredients :

Equipment

Large skillet
2 Medium mixing bowls
9 x 13″ casserole dish
Cooking spray

Ingredients

1.5 pounds Lean Ground Beef
1 Red Bell Pepper, seeded, chopped
1 Yellow Onion, chopped
1 ounce Taco Seasoning Mix
2 ½ cups Biscuit Mix, like Bisquick
1 cup Water
Cooking Spray, like Pam
½ cup Sour Cream
½ cup Mayonnaise
4 ounces Diced Green Chiles, drained
1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded, divided
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
½ cup Salsa, mild

Directions :

Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350℉.
Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess fat. (While the meat cooks, you can prepare the biscuit dough.)
Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Stir until well mixed, ideally using your hands for thorough blending. Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and press the dough into the dish, spreading it out to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes, or until the dough is set and lightly golden. Set aside, but keep the oven on.
Cook the Vegetables: Add chopped onions and red bell pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes. Add taco seasoning and mix well. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Layers: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly on top of the baked biscuit layer.
Prepare the Sour Cream Layer: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth. Carefully spread this mixture over the ground beef layer.
Add Salsa and Cheese: Add small spoonfuls of salsa over the sour cream layer (no need to spread it out). Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top.
Bake: Place the casserole back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

how to serve Cattle Drive Casserole

Cut into squares and serve warm. Add fresh cilantro or sliced green onions if you like. Offer extra salsa or sour cream on the side. This casserole pairs well with a green salad or simple steamed vegetables.

how to store Cattle Drive Casserole

Cool to room temperature. Cover tightly with foil or a lid and refrigerate up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheat covered at 350℉ until hot.

tips to make Cattle Drive Casserole

Drain the beef well so the biscuit layer stays firm.
Press the biscuit dough evenly so it bakes the same thickness.
Use mild or spicy salsa to match your heat preference.
If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil during baking.
For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.

variation (if any)

Make it with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Stir in black beans or corn with the beef for more texture.
Use pepper jack cheese for extra spice.
Top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch just before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. Prepare through the assembly step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.

Q: Can I use biscuit dough from a can instead of biscuit mix?
A: Yes. Press canned biscuit dough into the dish and par-bake as directed, adjusting time if needed until lightly golden.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: Yes. Replace beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat substitute and season the same way.

Q: Can I make smaller pans?
A: You can halve the recipe and use an 8 x 8-inch dish. Adjust baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Cattle Drive Casserole is an easy, comforting dish that fills a family and reheats well. For the original recipe source and more notes, see Cattle Drive Casserole – The Country Cook.