Description
Cowboy Casserole Dinner is a hearty and easy-to-make family meal that combines ground beef, beans, corn, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with cheddar cheese and crispy tater tots. This comforting casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and gathers the family around a delicious, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Dairy & Canned Goods
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Others
- 1 package (2.5 lbs) frozen tater tots
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula for about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain Excess Fat: Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Corn and Beans: Add the drained corn and black beans, stirring to combine evenly with the beef mixture.
- Add Soup and Milk: Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and milk, mixing well until everything is evenly coated.
- Season the Mixture: Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the beef and bean mixture evenly in a large 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
- Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Optional Broil: If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve extra crispiness, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes to set.
- Serve: Scoop out portions and garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy: Share and enjoy the hearty cowboy casserole with family and friends!
- Storage: Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from being too greasy.
- Use low-fat or reduced-sodium soup and milk for a lighter version.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
- Make sure to spread the tater tots evenly for uniform crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Garnish with fresh herbs to add brightness and color to the dish.
