How to Make Cowboy Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and frozen corn. Mix well until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Finally, arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the cheese — this will create that irresistible golden crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle another handful of cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color. Serve it with a fresh side salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
💡 Tips and Variations
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Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of chili powder for a Southwestern twist.
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Go veggie: Replace the beef with plant-based crumbles and use cream of celery soup.
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Prep ahead: Assemble the casserole in the morning and refrigerate. Pop it in the oven when you’re ready for dinner!
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Freeze it: Cowboy Casserole freezes beautifully — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cowboy Casserole is everything we love about comfort food: rich, creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy on top. It’s budget-friendly, easy to customize, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy meal, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Y’all ready to dig in?
Give this Cowboy Casserole a try and let me know how you make it your own! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening — no cowboy hat required. 🤠
