Cowboy Casserole (Tater Tot Beef Bake)

Introduction

Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food classic — hearty, cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor! Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, melted cheddar cheese, and a crispy tater tot topping, this easy casserole is a family favorite that brings a cozy, home-style taste to any dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, this dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. One bite and you’ll see why it’s a crowd pleaser every time!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

• 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained (or frozen corn)

• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel), drained

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp chili powder (optional)

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

2. Cook the beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.

• Add onion (and garlic, if using) and cook until softened.

• Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.

• Drain any excess fat.

3. Mix the filling

In a large bowl, combine:

• the cooked beef mixture

• cream of mushroom soup

• sour cream

• corn

• Rotel tomatoes

• 1 cup shredded cheddar

Stir until everything is well mixed.

4. Assemble the casserole

• Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

• Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top.

• Sprinkle extra cheddar over the tater tots for a cheesier finish.

5. Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until:

• the tater tots are golden and crispy

• the filling is hot and bubbling

For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

6. Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Serve with:
✔ A fresh green salad
✔ Ranch dressing
✔ Crisp raw veggies

Conclusion

Cowboy Casserole is a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy. With its creamy beef filling and irresistible crisp tater tot topping, it’s a recipe your family will ask for again and again. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a fuss-free dinner, this hearty bake is a delicious winner every time!

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