Why Make This Recipe
Easy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots is a perfect dish for busy weeknights. It combines classic flavors and ingredients that everyone loves. With ground beef, crispy tater tots, and creamy toppings, it’s a hearty meal that can please the whole family. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be ready in under an hour. This recipe brings comfort food to your table without any fuss!
How to Make Easy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots
Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound ground beef (85/15)
- 1 cup corn
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 bag (28 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain the fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, corn, bacon, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
- Layer the frozen tater tots on top of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your satisfying dinner!
How to Serve Easy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots
Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven. You can add a side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the meal. This dish is filling and tasty, making it a great choice for dinner parties or family get-togethers.
How to Store Easy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave single servings until hot.
Tips to Make Easy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like bell peppers or green beans, to add more flavor and nutrition.
- If you like spice, consider adding jalapeños or a little hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Variation
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, trying different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, will give a different flavor twist!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the Cowboy Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and it will keep for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 60-75 minutes.
2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn and cooked bacon work great in this recipe. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
3. What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad or some garlic bread complements the casserole well. You can also serve it with a side of salsa for added flavor!
Easy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1/2 pound ground beef (85/15) Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 cup corn Fresh or frozen corn can be used.
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped Fresh cooked bacon is preferred.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) Try pepper jack or mozzarella for variation.
- 1 bag (28 oz) frozen tater tots No need to thaw before using.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain the fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, corn, bacon, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
- Layer the frozen tater tots on top of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tater tots.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.