Introduction

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, creamy soup, cheesy layers, and crispy tater tots. It’s an easy, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The dish is presented on a white plate filled with a creamy sauce as the bottom layer, light beige in color with specks of herbs and spices throughout. On top, there are chunks of golden brown roasted cauliflower, crispy on the edges and coated with a rich cream sauce. Scattered on the cauliflower are small pieces of browned bacon adding a reddish-brown contrast. The entire dish is sprinkled with finely chopped fresh green parsley, giving it a fresh pop of color. The textures show a mix of smooth creamy sauce, crunchy cauliflower edges, and bits of crisp bacon, all sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by the drained corn, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Arrange the tater tots evenly over the cheese layer.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add diced onions or bell peppers to the beef while browning.
Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup for a different taste.
Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Try adding a layer of cooked black beans or green chilies for a Southwestern twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and the tater tots regain crispiness.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a serving of creamy casserole with a golden-brown top layer made of crisp baked pieces, scattered with small dark red-brown bacon bits. The middle layer beneath shows a soft, slightly crumbly light yellow texture. The whole dish is covered in a thick, light beige creamy sauce with specks of black pepper and herbs. Bright green fresh parsley is sprinkled on top, adding color and freshness. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it covered. Bake it just before serving, allowing a few extra minutes in the oven as it will be cold.

Can I substitute frozen tater tots with something else?

Certainly! You can use frozen hash browns or even roasted diced potatoes. The key is to choose something that crisps up well during baking.

Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 137 reviews

This hearty Cowboy Casserole layers seasoned ground beef with creamy mushroom soup, sweet corn, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots for a comforting, all-in-one dish perfect for a family dinner.

Author: Tara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Mix Sauce: Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef and stir well to combine into a creamy, flavorful mixture.
Layer Ingredients: Grease a baking dish, then spread the beef mixture evenly on the bottom, layer the drained corn on top, and sprinkle with shredded cheese to add richness.
Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single even layer over the cheese for a crispy, golden topping once baked.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set and ensure safe eating temperature.

Notes

You can substitute cream of chicken soup for the mushroom soup if preferred.
Use your favorite cheese blend such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.
For added veggies, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or onions with the beef.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese.

Keywords: cowboy casserole, tater tot casserole, ground beef casserole, easy family dinner, cheesy casserole