Looking for a hearty, kid-approved dinner idea that’s easy to make? This Cowboy Casserole is the perfect solution! Packed with seasoned ground beef, crispy tater tots, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or prepping for a family gathering, this casserole delivers a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Casserole

Kid-Friendly: Tater tots make this dish irresistible for kids.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it in advance for stress-free dinners.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, game nights, and family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

½ pound ground beef (85/15)
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
⅔ cup condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
⅓ cup whole milk
¼ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
32 ounces frozen tater tots

How to Make Cowboy Casserole

1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3: Mix the Ingredients

Add corn, cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup cheese, milk, sour cream, onion powder, black pepper, and bacon to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

4: Assemble the Casserole

Layer the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle with an additional ¼ cup cheese, then arrange tater tots neatly on top.

5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

6: Add the Final Touch

Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup cheese over the top and bake for another 5 minutes until melted.

7: Serve & Enjoy!

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.

Chef’s Tip: Customize Your Cowboy Casserole

Want to change things up? Try these variations:

Swap the Tots: Use thinly sliced potatoes or hash browns instead.
Add More Protein: Mix in black beans, kidney beans, or diced chicken.
Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Try Different Cheese: Experiment with pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Cowboy Casserole - The Ultimate Comfort Food for Busy Families

Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Once cooled, wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Want a hands-off version? Follow the same instructions but layer everything in a slow cooker instead of a baking dish. Cook on LOW for 5 hours without opening the lid. The result? A delicious, tender casserole ready to serve when you walk through the door!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this without canned soup?
A: Yes! Substitute with a homemade cream sauce by mixing 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon flour, and ½ cup milk until thickened.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans work great.

Q: What if I don’t have sour cream?
A: You can substitute Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: Yes! Thinly sliced baby potatoes or hash browns make a great substitute.

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Final Thoughts

This Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights and dinner ideas kids will love. With its crispy tater tot topping, creamy filling, and cheesy goodness, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you bake it in the oven or use the slow cooker, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve with minimal effort.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Happy cooking! ️