Name: Cowboy Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 bag (16 oz) frozen tater tots

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A hearty and comforting dish, Cowboy Casserole is everything I want in a cozy, family-friendly meal. It combines seasoned ground beef, beans, sweet corn, and zesty tomatoes, all blanketed by a layer of crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s filling, flavorful, and easy to pull together.

Cowboy Casserole

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

½ cup onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup sour cream

1 tablespoon taco seasoning

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 bag (16 oz) frozen tater tots

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, I cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain any excess fat.

I add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the onion is softened.

I stir in the taco seasoning, salt, pepper, kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

After removing the skillet from heat, I mix in the sour cream.

I transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

I arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture.

Then I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.

I bake the casserole for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

I let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 generous servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 35 minutes

Total time: 50 minutes

Estimated calories: 350 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes switch things up by using black beans instead of kidney beans, or by adding a layer of chopped jalapeños if I want more heat. A mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and pepper jack can bring a bolder flavor. For a creamier texture, I’ve tried adding a bit of cream cheese to the beef mixture with great results. If I’m short on time, I even use pre-cooked ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I simply warm portions in the microwave or bake them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If I’ve made it ahead, I cover it with foil and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

FAQs

How do I make Cowboy Casserole spicier?

I like adding diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or swapping regular diced tomatoes for a hot version with extra green chilies. Pepper jack cheese also brings a nice kick.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the entire dish up until baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready, I bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's going straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze Cowboy Casserole?

Absolutely. I assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap it well in foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. When I’m ready, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

What can I serve with Cowboy Casserole?

I usually serve it with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or cornbread. It’s also great with a dollop of guacamole or a spoonful of salsa on top.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

Yes, I’ve done this using parboiled and seasoned potato slices or shredded hash browns. Just make sure they’re partially cooked so they crisp up properly during baking.

Conclusion

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, family-approved classic that I love coming back to. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to customize with what I have on hand. Whether I’m serving it fresh from the oven or pulling leftovers from the fridge, it’s always a warm, satisfying meal that hits the spot.

Recipe:

Cowboy Casserole

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes with green chilies, and sour cream, all topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It's a perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in taco seasoning, salt, pepper, kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and mix in sour cream.
Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until tater tots are golden and crispy.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.