Why You’ll Love Cowboy Casserole Recipe
This Cowboy Casserole is the definition of comfort food. It combines simple ingredients into a warm, filling dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.
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Easy to make with everyday pantry staples
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Family-friendly and kid-approved
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Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
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Customizable with your favorite add-ins
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A complete meal baked in one dish
The contrast between the creamy beef filling and the crispy tater tot topping makes every bite delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef
onion, diced
garlic, minced
cream of mushroom soup
sour cream
frozen corn
shredded cheddar cheese
frozen tater tots
salt
black pepper
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is fully browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, corn, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined and heated through.
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Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
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Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
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Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 to 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 to 40 minutes
Total time: Approximately 55 minutes
Variations
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños, green chilies, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cream of cheddar soup for a slightly different flavor profile.
Stir in cooked bacon pieces for a smoky twist.
Add black beans or diced bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for added heat.
Substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until heated through. For the crispiest results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I prepare Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Do I need to thaw the tater tots before baking?
No, use them directly from the freezer. They will cook and crisp up perfectly in the oven.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack all work well depending on your flavor preference.
What vegetables can I add to this casserole?
You can add peas, green beans, diced bell peppers, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free condensed soup and make sure your tater tots are certified gluten-free.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Bake the casserole uncovered and avoid overlapping the tater tots too much. Reheating in the oven instead of the microwave also helps maintain crispiness.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two dishes or one larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Is Cowboy Casserole spicy?
The traditional version is mild. You can easily increase the heat by adding hot sauce, jalapeños, or spicy cheese.
Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and works well in this recipe.
What side dishes go well with Cowboy Casserole?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair nicely with this hearty main dish.
Conclusion
Cowboy Casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy potato topping make it a dependable favorite for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. With easy customization options and excellent leftover potential, this casserole is sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation.
