introduction
This cowboy casserole is easy and filling. It uses beef, corn, cheese, soup, and crispy tater tots. It cooks in one dish and is great for busy nights. For a simple dessert after this meal, try the easy berry trifle recipe.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is fast, cheap, and tastes good. It feeds a group. You can make it ahead and bake later. Kids and adults both like it.
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 and milk to the beef.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until mixed.
- Grease a baking dish.
- Layer the beef mixture in the dish.
- Spread the drained corn over the beef.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the corn.
- Arrange the tater tots evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Cowboy Casserole
Serve warm in squares. Add a green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. You can top with chopped green onions or sour cream if you like.
how to store Cowboy Casserole
Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Cowboy Casserole
Use lean ground beef to cut fat. Drain the beef well to avoid a soggy dish. Add extra cheese for more flavor. Check tater tots near the end so they do not burn.
variation (if any)
Swap cream of mushroom with cream of chicken. Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of corn. Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter dish. Add jalapeños for more heat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use cooked lentils or a meatless ground substitute instead of beef and use vegetable soup.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: You can. Par-cook diced potatoes until nearly tender, then layer and bake until crisp.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave single servings until hot.
Conclusion
If you want more details and ideas for this dish, see the full write-up at Cowboy Casserole: Discover a Deliciously Easy Recipe!