This hearty, comforting Cowboy Casserole is the perfect family dinner. It’s packed with layers of savory ground beef, creamy soup, melty cheddar cheese, and crispy tater tots. It’s a dish everyone will love, and it’s easy to prepare!
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs. Ground beef (lean for a less greasy dish)
- 1 large bag of frozen tater tots (for two layers)
- 1 cup onion, chopped (yellow onion for a sweet flavor)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ cup milk (for a creamier texture)
- 1 can cream of onion soup (adds creaminess)
- 1 can of corn, drained (for a slight crunch)
- ¼ cup sour cream (for tang and creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for a rich, melty texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the casserole.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer half of the frozen tater tots in a single layer at the bottom of the dish.
3. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks for even distribution.
4. Drain the Grease:
After cooking, drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy casserole.
5. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. This will add a nice depth of flavor.
6. Combine the Creamy Ingredients:
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the cream of onion soup, milk, and drained corn. Add sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the beef mixture evenly over the tater tot layer in the prepared baking dish.
8. Add Final Layers:
Top with the remaining tater tots in a neat layer and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
9. Bake:
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
10. Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top for a pop of color.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies to balance out this hearty meal.
Enjoy your Cowboy Casserole! This meal is full of flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for cozy family dinners. Everyone will love the combination of tater tots, beef, and cheese in this ultimate comfort food.