Cowboy Casserole

why make this recipe

Cowboy Casserole is a great dish for busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors, making it a hit with family and friends. The combination of ground beef, corn, cheese, and crispy tater tots creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home!

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:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until well combined.
4. In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the drained corn, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
5. Finally, arrange the tater tots evenly over the cheese layer.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

how to serve Cowboy Casserole

Serve Cowboy Casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables on the side. You can also add some hot sauce or green onions for extra flavor.

how to store Cowboy Casserole

To store leftovers, let the Cowboy Casserole cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and it will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

tips to make Cowboy Casserole

• For extra flavor, consider adding some cooked and crumbled bacon on top before baking.
• You can use different types of cheese based on your preference, like mozzarella or pepper jack.
• If you want a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

variation

You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with black beans or lentils. Additionally, try adding different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can use diced, cooked potatoes instead of tater tots. Just make sure they are cooked and seasoned before adding them to the casserole.

What can I serve with Cowboy Casserole?
This dish pairs nicely with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with some bread or rolls for a complete meal.

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