Description
This hearty and flavorful Cowboy Casserole is a classic comfort food dish combining savory ground beef, diced onions, sweet corn, creamy mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy tater tots. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole bakes to golden perfection with a cheesy, crunchy top that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (32 ounce) bag frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the onion and drain the canned corn to have all ingredients ready before starting.
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onions until the beef is fully cooked and onions are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Casserole Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the drained corn and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
- Top with Tater Tots: Cover the entire surface with the frozen tater tots in a single layer.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, add a squeeze of lime juice to add a fresh contrast.
- Store and Reheat: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through and crispy again.
Notes
- Do not throw all ingredients in at once; layering and timing matter for the best flavor and texture.
- Diced onions add sweetness and depth—ensure they are sautéed properly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before assembling the casserole.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving adds a great contrast and brightness.
- To reheat, bake leftovers at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- This recipe is versatile; you can add other vegetables or spices to customize your casserole.
