Description
Bring bold flavors to your table with this Cowboy Casserole! A hearty mix of seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, zesty tomatoes, and melted cheese, all topped with crispy potato tots. It’s the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Nonstick spray
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 ½ pounds 90/10 ground beef
- 1 (1-ounce) envelope taco seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 (8-ounce) package shredded Mexican-blend cheese, divided (about 2 cups)
- 1 (32-ounce) package frozen potato tots
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. - Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Stir in the pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and frozen corn. Mix well and cook for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream and ½ cup of shredded cheese. Mix until creamy and combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese over the top.
- Arrange the potato tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the potato tots are golden brown and crispy and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve warm with sour cream or hot sauce on the side for extra flavor.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
- Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the beef and double the beans and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian casserole.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain the crispy texture of the potato tots.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American