This Cowboy Casserole is loaded with seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, creamy sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tater tots. It's a hearty, family-friendly comfort food dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy one-pan meal
- Loaded with beef and cheese
- Crispy tater tot topping
- Kid-friendly
- Great leftovers
- Budget-friendly dinner
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned.
Drain excess grease.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 3
Stir in:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Sour cream
- Corn
- Rotel tomatoes
Mix until combined.
Step 4
Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle with 1 cup cheddar cheese.
Step 5
Arrange frozen tater tots evenly across the top.
Sprinkle remaining cheese over the tater tots.
Step 6
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
Step 7
Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with parsley and serve.
Storage
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Cowboy Casserole and Tater Tot Casserole?
Cowboy Casserole includes corn, Rotel tomatoes, and extra Southwestern flavors, while traditional Tater Tot Casserole is simpler and creamier.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add diced jalapeños or use hot Rotel.
Can I use ground turkey?
Absolutely.