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Cowboy Casserole

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Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, creamy cheese, and crispy tater tots. This one-pan meal is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or a potluck. With flavorful seasonings, a creamy filling, and a crispy topping, it’s sure to please a crowd and become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)

  • 1 cup (240g) sour cream

  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots

  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

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

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

  • Cook the Ground Beef:
    In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

  • Add the Seasonings and Vegetables:
    To the cooked beef, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sweet corn and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

  • Make the Casserole Filling:
    In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir until smooth. Add this mixture to the beef and vegetable mixture, then stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

  • Assemble the Casserole:
    Spread the beef and soup mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.

  • Bake the Casserole:
    Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

  • Serve:
    Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.

Notes

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

  • Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tater tots and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.