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.

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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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.

Notes

Use black beans instead of kidney beans for variety.

Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier version.

Try a cheese blend like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for more flavor.

Swap ground beef with pre-cooked ground turkey for a lighter option.

For a creamier casserole, mix in some cream cheese.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat, use a microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 55mg