Introduction
Cowboy casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, beans, and creamy soups, topped with a crispy layer of tater tots. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering an easy and satisfying option for the whole family. Bursting with flavor and texture, cowboy casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground beef: 1 pound
Onion, chopped: 1 medium
Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
Corn, drained: 1 cup
Black beans, drained and rinsed: 1 can (15 oz)
Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
BBQ sauce: 1/2 cup
Shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice): 1 cup
Tater tots: 1 bag (about 30 oz)
Salt and pepper: to taste
Prep Time
The prep time for cowboy casserole is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to quickly chop your ingredients and prepare the dish for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 45 minutes, bringing the total time to about 1 hour from start to finish. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it a perfect option for family gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy this delicious cowboy casserole as a filling and flavorful meal that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Add Onion and Garlic
Add 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the onions are soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate Corn and Beans
Stir in 1 can of corn (drained) and 1 can of black beans (rinsed and drained) into the skillet mixture. Mix well.
Add Tomato Soup and Seasoning
Pour in 1 can of tomato soup and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning. Combine all the ingredients thoroughly, allowing the mixture to heat up.
Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut the dough into pieces.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Scatter the biscuit pieces over the top of the beef mixture.
Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the biscuit pieces are golden brown and cooked through.
Let it Cool
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Storage
Leftover cowboy casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To bake from frozen, increase the cooking time to about 50-60 minutes.
Variations
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, and you can use different types of beans or cheese according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cowboy casserole with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Ground Meat Browning
Browning ground meat properly enhances the flavor of the casserole. Ensure an even cook by breaking the meat into small pieces and cooking until no longer pink.
Layering Ingredients
Layering ingredients allows for even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole. Consider the texture and cooking times of each component when layering.
Simmering
Simmering the mixture before baking helps meld the flavors together. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes for maximum taste.
Baking
Baking the casserole until it’s bubbly and golden creates a delicious crust. Ensure the baking dish is positioned in the center of the oven for even cooking.
Cooling Before Serving
Letting the casserole cool slightly before serving allows it to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a different flavor and texture.
What can I serve with cowboy casserole?
Cowboy casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze cowboy casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Ensure it is in a freezer-safe container and it can be stored for up to 3 months.
How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the casserole according to the recipe instructions, typically until it is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Conclusion
Cowboy casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Its simplicity and versatility make it a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With the ability to customize based on your preferences, this casserole allows for creativity while being a comforting classic that everyone will enjoy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
A fun twist that combines flavors of chili and cheese with hot dogs, perfect for a quick dinner option.
Vegetable Beef Casserole
Substitute ground beef with hearty mixed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian-friendly casserole.
Taco Casserole
Add a Mexican flair by incorporating taco seasonings, black beans, and corn along with your favorite toppings.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
Transform the recipe by using shredded buffalo chicken and serving it with a side of ranch dressing for added flavor.
Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Make a breakfast version by using eggs, breakfast sausage, and shredded cheese, perfect for weekend brunches.
