If you’re searching for a stick-to-your-ribs, crowd-pleasing dinner idea, this Cowboy Casserole is your answer. It’s a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish filled with seasoned ground beef, tender tater tots, melty cheese, and sweet corn—making it the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping a make-ahead meal, or simply craving a down-home dinner, this cowboy casserole checks all the boxes.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Casserole
Hearty & Satisfying: With ground beef, tater tots, and cheese, it’s a full meal in one dish.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will dig into this casserole with enthusiasm.
Easy to Prepare: Minimal chopping, no special tools, and just 15 minutes of prep time.
Great for Make-Ahead or Freezing: Assemble it in advance and bake later.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained if canned)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for added depth)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 How to Make Cowboy Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Beef
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned and fully cooked. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, corn, 1 cup of shredded cheese, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top and return to the oven for another 5 minutes or until melted.
Step 5: Serve
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
📝 Recipe Tips
Add a Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in diced green chiles, taco seasoning, or black beans.
Make It Spicy: Toss in jalapeños or hot sauce to heat things up.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with pepper jack or a Mexican blend for added flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
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🥘 Serving Suggestions
Pair this cowboy casserole with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. It’s perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings.
❓ FAQ: Cowboy Casserole
Q: Can I make cowboy casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey or ground chicken are great lean substitutes and still deliver excellent flavor.
Q: Can I freeze cowboy casserole?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it well with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Q: What vegetables can I add?
A: Diced bell peppers, green beans, or peas are tasty additions that blend well with the casserole’s flavors.
Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and double-check that your tater tots and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
This Cowboy Casserole is a true classic—easy to make, rich with flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding cowboys or just a hungry crew at home, this recipe will surely become a repeat favorite on your table.