If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that everyone loves, this Cowboy Casserole recipe is the perfect choice. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, sweet corn, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots, it’s a simple oven-baked dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cowboy Casserole recipe is rich, filling, and incredibly easy to make. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients, comes together quickly, and is ideal for busy weeknights. The crispy tater tots on top paired with the creamy beef filling make it a guaranteed family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Layer the drained corn over the beef mixture, then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Let the Cowboy Casserole recipe cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
- For extra crispiness, bake uncovered for the full time.
- Use sharp cheddar for deeper flavor.
- Add paprika or chili powder if you prefer a smoky kick.
- You can swap corn for peas or mixed vegetables.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, no alcohol, no pork
Notes
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. It also pairs well with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 26g
FAQ
Can I make Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen with extra time.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Colby Jack or mozzarella also work well.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Tater tots give the best texture, but diced roasted potatoes can be used.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The flavors are mild and comforting.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until hot.
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Cowboy Casserole Recipe (Easy Family Dinner)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can 15 oz corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or preferred cheese
- 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Layer the drained corn over the beef mixture, then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Let the Cowboy Casserole recipe cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Conclusion
This Cowboy Casserole recipe is the kind of comforting, no-stress dinner that never disappoints. With its creamy layers and crispy topping, it’s perfect for family meals, potlucks, or make-ahead dinners you can rely on.