why make this recipe

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines flavors and textures that everyone loves, making it a crowd-pleaser. The best part is, it is easy to make and requires minimal effort. Each bite is filled with savory ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy tater tots, making it a one-dish meal that satisfies hungry bellies.

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 excess fat.
Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until well combined.
In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the drained corn, and then 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 Cowboy Casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs great with a side salad or some garlic bread. You can also add some hot sauce or ketchup on top for extra flavor if you like.

how to store Cowboy Casserole

To store Cowboy Casserole, let it cool completely. Then place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

tips to make Cowboy Casserole

For extra flavor, you can add diced onions or bell peppers when cooking the ground beef.
Try using a mix of different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a fun twist.
If you want a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the beef mixture.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version of Cowboy Casserole by replacing the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use any kind of frozen vegetables instead of corn.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: Yes, you can slice fresh potatoes thinly and layer them on top instead of tater tots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as fresh potatoes may take longer to cook.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it just before serving.

Q: What can I serve with Cowboy Casserole?
A: Cowboy Casserole goes well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.