Sometimes you need a stick-to-your-ribs, one-pan meal that feeds the whole family. Bonus points if it’s meaty, cheesy, and filled with taco-esque flavors with a crispy top. Cowboy casserole is all that and more—everything I look for in a hearty casserole.
The filling consists of ground beef, onion, pinto beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning along with sour cream and melty cheese. Topped with potato tots that crisp up in the hot oven, the whole family will fall in love.
Make It Ahead
You can make the filling a day or two ahead, let it cool, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Reheat the filling before adding to the dish and topping with the potato tots. You can also completely assemble the casserole, then tightly wrap it and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge before baking.
Recipe Variations
- Use black beans instead of pinto beans
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey
- Make your own taco seasoning
- Swap the garlic powder for 2 to 3 minced garlic cloves
- Some canned tomatoes with green chiles, like Rotel, come in different heat levels. Use mild, medium, or hot, depending on your desired spice level
Simply Recipes / Photo by Will Dickey / Food Styling by Julian Hensarling / Prop Styling by Christina Daley
Ground Beef Casseroles
#Cowboy #Casserole #Recipe
