Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, satisfying one-dish wonder that brings together everything you love about comfort food. Think creamy beef, golden tater tots, melty cheddar, and a touch of sweetness from corn—all baked to perfection in under an hour.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends, this casserole delivers rich, savory flavor with minimal effort. It’s also incredibly customizable: swap the beef for turkey, add black beans or jalapeños for a Tex-Mex twist, or top with green onions for freshness. However you make it, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 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 shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, corn, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Sprinkle with extra cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking if desired.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
