Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the flavors of the wild west right to your kitchen. This delicious casserole combines ground beef, savory onions, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect meal for busy nights or gatherings with family and friends.
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Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner. The ingredients are easy to find, and chances are, you might already have some of them in your pantry. Plus, Cowboy Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, which means it’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike. It’s filling, comforting, and can easily be customized to fit your taste!
How to Make Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup creamy mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the creamy mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the beef mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with frozen tater tots and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then top with crumbled bacon before serving.
How to Serve Cowboy Casserole
To serve, dish out generous portions of Cowboy Casserole onto plates. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some fresh bread. You can also add extra toppings like chopped green onions or sour cream for added flavor.
How to Store Cowboy Casserole
If you have leftovers, store Cowboy Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cowboy Casserole
- For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with garlic powder or chili powder while cooking.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
- If you enjoy some spice, add diced jalapeños or a little hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Variation
Feel free to customize this casserole! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition. Swap the creamy mushroom soup for creamy chicken soup if you prefer a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can use thinly sliced fresh potatoes. Just make sure to cook them a bit longer until they are tender and crispy.
2. Can I make Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the casserole in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
3. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked Cowboy Casserole for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup creamy mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the creamy mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
Assembly
- Spread the beef mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with frozen tater tots and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over them.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then top with crumbled bacon before serving.
