Cowboy Casserole
Savor comfort with Cowboy Casserole—a symphony of beef, veggies, and crispy tater tots. Ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes create a savory base, topped with cheddar, mozzarella, and golden tots. Ready in 75 mins, it's a mood-lifting masterpiece that transcends the ordinary.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9x13 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 can (15 oz) corn drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes: Add drained black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly in the dish.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle both cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Tater Tot Topping: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly over the cheese layer, creating a crispy topping for the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps to set the dish and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Notes
- Customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or adjusting the cheese quantities.
- You can use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor.
- Make it spicier by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Serve with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for extra indulgence.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated. Just bake when ready to serve.