Introduction:
Cattle Drive Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. With its layers of savory ground beef, creamy sour cream mixture, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
| 1 ½ pounds ground beef |
|---|
| 1 onion, minced |
| 1 taco seasoning packet |
| ½ cup sour cream |
| ½ cup mayonnaise |
| ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided |
| ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese, divided |
| One 4-ounce can diced green chilies, drained |
| 2 cups Bisquick |
| 1 cup water |
Instructions:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and taco seasoning. Cook until browned on all sides.
- Add minced onion and diced green chilies to the skillet. Cook until the onion is tender and slightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Sour Cream Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of each of the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded pepper jack cheese. Mix well and set aside.
- Make the Bisquick Dough:
- In another bowl, combine the Bisquick and water. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the Bisquick dough into a greased 9-by-13-inch casserole dish.
- Top the Bisquick dough with the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Spread the sour cream mixture over the beef layer.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and shredded pepper jack cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and browned on top.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
- You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or jalapenos.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques:
- When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it into smaller pieces for even cooking.
- Greasing the casserole dish prevents the ingredients from sticking to the bottom.
FAQs:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if baking from cold.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I omit the green chilies?
- Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the green chilies or substitute them with diced bell peppers.
Conclusion:
Cattle Drive Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. With its layers of savory ground beef, creamy sour cream mixture, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
More Recipe Suggestions and Combinations:
- Serve with a side of salsa and guacamole for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Add a layer of refried beans or black beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and diced avocado before serving for a burst of freshness.
