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Why Make This Recipe

Cowboy Casserole is an easy and filling dish that brings the flavors of the ranch right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a hearty meal with minimal effort. With its mix of ground beef, creamy soup, corn, cheese, and crispy tater tots, everyone in the family is sure to love it. Plus, you can whip it up in just about an hour, making it a winner for both taste and convenience.

How to Make Cowboy Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until well combined.
In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the drained corn, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Finally, arrange the tater tots evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cowboy Casserole

Serve Cowboy Casserole hot from the oven. It’s great on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You can also offer hot sauce or salsa on the side for those who like an extra kick.

How to Store Cowboy Casserole

To store leftover Cowboy Casserole, let it cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Cowboy Casserole

Feel free to customize the cheese according to your taste. American cheese or mozzarella can also work well.
If you want to add some veggies, consider including bell peppers or diced onions when you cook the beef.
For a spicier version, you can add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mixture.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of beef. You can also swap the cream of mushroom soup for a healthier option, like a low-fat cream of chicken soup.

FAQs

Can I make Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with Cowboy Casserole?
You can serve it with a salad, steamed vegetables, or even cornbread for a complete meal.
Can I use fresh ingredients instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots. Just peel, slice, and cook them until tender before layering them in the casserole.