Cowboy Casserole
A hearty and comforting dish featuring ground beef, savory onions, creamy mushroom soup, crispy tater tots, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for busy nights or gatherings.
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.
Notes
For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with garlic powder or chili powder while cooking. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Feel free to customize with vegetables like bell peppers or corn. This dish stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.