Cowboy Casserole: A Hearty Comfort Food Classic
Dive into the heartwarming comfort of this Cowboy Casserole, a robust dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Featuring a savory mixture of ground beef, corn, and creamy soup topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheese, this casserole is a guaranteed hit for any meal. It combines simple ingredients in a one-dish wonder that’s both satisfying and delicious, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
A Rustic, Flavorful Feast
This Cowboy Casserole recipe is all about hearty ingredients and easy preparation, resulting in a flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Equipment: Skillet, 9×13 inch baking dish
Recipe Title: Ultimate Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 can (15.25 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen tater tots (preferably Ore-Ida Crispy Crowns), defrosted
Directions:
- Prep the Ingredients: Allow the tater tots to defrost on the counter for about an hour prior to assembly. This ensures they cook evenly and get perfectly crispy.
- Cook the Meat and Veggies: In a large skillet, sauté the onion until tender and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain the beef and transfer to a large bowl.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream until smooth. Pour this mixture into the bowl with the beef. Add the drained corn and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Stir everything together gently until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the defrosted tater tots at the bottom. Top with the beef mixture, then layer the remaining tater tots on top.
- Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing.
Comfort in Every Bite
Enjoy the delightful textures and flavors of this Cowboy Casserole, where every bite offers a taste of home-cooked goodness. It’s a perfect dish for those nights when you need a comforting meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Pair it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables to round out a hearty and balanced meal.
