Cowboy Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese, all topped with crispy tater tots. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This easy-to-make casserole is packed with flavor and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own Cowboy Casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 lb extra lean ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 large purple onion, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can of corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained
- 1 can of fat-free cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups Colby cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup skim milk
- ¼ cup fat-free sour cream
- 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen tater tots
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 7-8 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and diced purple onion to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving the beef and onion mixture in the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Filling
- Stir in the drained corn, black beans, and cream of mushroom soup into the beef mixture.
- Add the skim milk and sour cream, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Colby cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, covering the entire surface of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Cowboy Casserole hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cook’s Notes
- Ground Beef: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Tater Tots: Make sure the tater tots are fully cooked and crispy before serving. If you like them extra crispy, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend, in place of Colby cheddar.
Variations
Spicy Cowboy Casserole
Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Cowboy Casserole
Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also add an extra can of beans for more protein.
BBQ Cowboy Casserole
Mix ¼ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce into the beef mixture for a smoky, tangy flavor.
Breakfast Cowboy Casserole
Add scrambled eggs to the beef mixture and top with tater tots and cheese for a hearty breakfast casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Cowboy Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze Cowboy Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. What can I serve with Cowboy Casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
5. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
Cowboy Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. With its combination of ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese, all topped with crispy tater tots, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, you’ll enjoy making and sharing this hearty, satisfying meal. Enjoy your Cowboy Casserole with your loved ones!
