Easy Ultimate Cowboy Casserole
This Easy Ultimate Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a family dinner. It features a savory ground beef filling with corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning, topped with a crispy tater tot and cheddar cheese crust. Simple to make and sure to please!
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Sour cream, for topping optional
- Green onions, for garnish optional
- Cooking spray or oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and taco seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Set aside.
- Pour the ground beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the meat mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For crispier tater tots, toss them with melted butter or olive oil and garlic powder before arranging them on the casserole. Adjust taco seasoning to taste, or add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra spice. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack. Add other vegetables like bell peppers or black beans. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.