Cowboy Casserole Recipe: A Hearty, Comforting Classic

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a Cowboy Casserole—a hearty, flavorful dish packed with ground beef, creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and a crispy topping.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a potluck, or just craving a cozy meal, this easy cowboy casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its savory, cheesy goodness and minimal prep, it’s the perfect one-dish wonder for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Category: Comfort Food / One-Pan Meals

This Cowboy Casserole is rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—think juicy ground beef, tender tater tots, gooey cheese, and a hint of smoky sweetness. It’s simple to make, requires basic ingredients, and delivers maximum comfort with every bite.

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Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious cowboy casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, for extra texture)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (essential for savory flavor)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (creamy base)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cheddar cheese soup (for extra cheesiness)
• 1 cup sour cream (adds tang and richness)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots (the crispy crown!)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (boosts umami flavor)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Why These Ingredients Work

• Ground beef provides a hearty, meaty base.
• Creamy soups & sour cream create a luscious, cohesive filling.
• Tater tots crisp up beautifully, adding texture.
• Smoked paprika & Worcestershire enhance the savory depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef & Veggies

• In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
• Add onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic, cooking until softened (about 5 min).
• Drain excess grease, then stir in cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Layer the Casserole

• Spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish.
• Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
• Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture.

4. Bake to Perfection

• Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
• For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

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Tips for Success

✔ Use lean beef (but not too lean—some fat adds flavor).
✔ Thaw tater tots slightly for extra crispiness.
✔ Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
✔ Cover with foil if the tots brown too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

This Cowboy Casserole is a meal on its own, but pair it with:

• A fresh green salad for balance.
• Buttery cornbread or dinner rolls.
• Pickled jalapeños for heat lovers.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
• Reheat: Cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works, but add extra seasoning for flavor.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed (add 5-10 extra minutes if cold).

What can I substitute for tater tots?

Try hash browns, crushed potato chips, or even biscuits for a twist.

Final Thoughts

This Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, it’s a foolproof favorite that never disappoints. Give it a try, and don’t forget to tag me on social media with your delicious results!