Cowboy Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one dish that combines savory ground beef, hearty beans, and the zesty kick of tomatoes with green chilies. Topped with crispy tater tots and melty cheddar cheese, this casserole is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s ideal for busy weeknights, feeding the family with minimal fuss while delivering maximum taste.
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Casserole
This dish brings together classic ingredients like ground beef, beans, and BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy base, while the crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese take it to the next level. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your household, offering a fun, satisfying meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 4-6 people
- Equipment: Oven, large skillet, baking dish
Recipe Title: Easy and Cheesy Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15.5 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15.5 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking of the casserole.
- Cook the Beef and Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the Additional Ingredients: Stir in the drained corn, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, BBQ sauce, and smoked paprika. Combine everything well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Add Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve Hot: Serve the Cowboy Casserole hot, straight from the baking dish. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or fresh vegetables.
A Comforting and Satisfying Casserole
This Easy Cowboy Casserole is a family-friendly dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. With its layers of savory meat, beans, and veggies, topped with crispy tater tots and gooey cheese, it offers a satisfying bite in every forkful. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit!
