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A hearty cowboy casserole served in a baking dish, topped with golden tater tots, melted cheese, and fresh herbs over a creamy beef and corn filling.

Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with seasoned ground beef, corn, creamy soup, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots. It’s an easy, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Oven
  • Large mixing bowl (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 can 15 oz whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Cook the Ground Beef:

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess grease.

Mix the Filling:

  • Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, corn, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.

Bake:

  • Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top, and return to bake for another 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and tots are golden.

Garnish & Serve:

  • Let cool slightly, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Tips:

  • Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Swap beef for ground turkey or sausage for variation.
  • Pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies.
Keyword Cowboy Casserole Recipe