Transport your taste buds to the heart of the Wild West with our Cattle Drive Casserole recipe. This hearty and satisfying dish pays homage to the rugged spirit of the American frontier, combining savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and gooey cheeses for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or simply craving a taste of the Old West, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to satisfy. Join us as we embark on a culinary adventure and discover the rich flavors of Cattle Drive Casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 taco seasoning packet
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese, divided
- One 4-ounce can diced green chilies, drained
- 2 cups Bisquick
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Preparing the Meat Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and minced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then stir in the taco seasoning packet until well combined.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Assembling the Casserole:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the shredded pepper jack cheese, and diced green chilies. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish.
Making the Bisquick Topping:
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick and water, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Pour the Bisquick batter evenly over the top of the sour cream mixture in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and shredded pepper jack cheese over the top of the Bisquick batter.
Baking the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Customize the casserole by adding your favorite toppings such as sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, or chopped green onions before baking.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content.
- Replace Bisquick with a keto-friendly baking mix made from almond flour or coconut flour.
- Use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise for a richer flavor.
Low-Carb Version:
- Omit the Bisquick topping altogether or replace it with a mixture of almond flour, baking powder, and eggs.
- Use low-carb tortillas or cauliflower rice as a base instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
- Choose low-carb or sugar-free taco seasoning to minimize the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer bags. Store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Certainly! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles for a lighter option. Adjust the seasoning to taste accordingly.
4. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by using a gluten-free taco seasoning packet and Bisquick alternative, such as gluten-free pancake mix or a homemade gluten-free baking mix.
Treat your taste buds to a flavor-packed journey with our Cattle Drive Casserole recipe. Whether you’re sitting down to a family dinner or hosting a Western-themed gathering, this hearty dish is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of cowboys and cowgirls. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. So saddle up, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the delicious taste of the Old West. Happy cooking!
With this delectable recipe and helpful tips, you’re well-equipped to rustle up a mouthwatering Cattle Drive Casserole that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the bold flavors and hearty goodness of this Western-inspired dish as you savor each delicious bite. Here’s to good food and happy trails!
