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Cowboy Casserole

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Cowboy Casserole is a hearty comfort food classic made with seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, a creamy sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tater tots. It’s an easy family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 bag frozen tater tots
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
  • Chopped green onions or fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the diced onion for 4–5 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Mix in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, corn, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
  6. Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the filling.
  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until melted.
  10. Garnish with crumbled bacon, green onions, or parsley before serving if desired.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter substitute for ground beef.
  • Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a spicy variation.
  • Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or green beans for extra vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cowboy-casserole/