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:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Tater Tot Arrangement: Ensure an even layer of tater tots for uniform cooking and crispiness.
- 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!