Cowboy Casserol

 

🤠 Cowboy Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Hungry Herds

Looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that’ll feed a crowd and leave everyone asking for seconds? Look no further than Cowboy Casserole — the down-home, stick-to-your-ribs dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home.

This isn’t your average casserole. Cowboy Casserole is packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots — all baked together into one irresistible dish that’s equal parts nostalgic and delicious. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and endlessly customizable. Yeehaw!

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🛒 Ingredients

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping

• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, but recommended)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.

3. Make It Creamy

Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, corn, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is combined and creamy.

4. Layer the Casserole

Pour the beef mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with a single layer of frozen tater tots, arranging them neatly or just tossing them on — it’s rustic, after all!

5. Bake

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

6. Top with Cheese

Remove from the oven and sprinkle the top with a little more shredded cheese. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.

7. Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

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🧡 Why You’ll Love Cowboy Casserole

• Quick & Easy – Minimal prep, one pan, no stress

• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or picky eaters

• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple pantry staples and freezer favorites

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble it early, bake when ready!

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Add a kick: Mix in diced green chilies or jalapeños for a spicier version.

• Swap the meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.

• Veggie boost: Add peas, black beans, or bell peppers to the beef mixture.

• Make it Tex-Mex: Use taco seasoning instead of paprika and top with salsa and avocado.

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🥄 Final Thoughts

Cowboy Casserole is the kind of comforting, no-fuss meal that brings people together. It’s warm, cheesy, crispy, and packed with flavor — everything you want in a down-home dinner. Whether you're wrangling a big family or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this casserole has got your back.

Saddle up and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!