Cowboy Casserole

by

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs. Ground beef
  • 1 Large bag frozen tater tots
  • 1 C. Onion, chopped
  • 2 tsp. Minced garlic
  • ½ C. Milk
  • 1 Can Cream of onion soup
  • 1 Can of corn, drained
  • ¼ C. Sour cream
  • 2 C. Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Layer Tater Tots:
    • Add half of the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the bottom of a well-greased 9×13 baking dish.
  3. Cook Ground Beef:
    • In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and onions are softened.
    • Drain any excess grease.
    • Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
  4. Prepare Filling:
    • Mix in cream of onion soup, milk, drained corn, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
    • Combine the mixture well with the meat.
  5. Assemble Casserole:
    • Spread the meat mixture over the layer of tater tots.
    • Place another layer of tater tots on top, and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake for 30-40 minutes until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese has melted.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Hearty and Filling: A complete meal in one dish, perfect for satisfying hungry appetites.
  • Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite toppings like green onions or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Tips for Perfect Cowboy Casserole:

  1. Tater Tot Arrangement: Ensure an even layer of tater tots for uniform cooking and crispiness.
  2. Meat Seasoning: Experiment with additional spices like chili powder or cumin for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Can I use a different soup variety?

Certainly! Feel free to substitute cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup based on your preference.

Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving for a fresh taste.

Q3: Are there alternatives to frozen tater tots?

Hash browns or shredded potatoes can be used as a tasty alternative to tater tots.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for later. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our Cowboy Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, bringing together the essence of a hearty, satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this casserole is a testament to simplicity and deliciousness. Embrace the warmth of a comforting dish with every bite of this Homemade Cowboy Casserole!

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