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Easy Cowboy Casserole - Image 2

Easy Cowboy Casserole

This hearty cowboy casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner featuring ground beef, tater tots, and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef 85/15 lean
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 0.67 cup condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 0.33 cup whole milk
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 10 ounce diced tomatoes drained
  • 32 ounces frozen tater tots
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Casserole Dish
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
  3. Add the corn, drained tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, half the cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, onion powder, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
  4. Pour the beef mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top.
  5. Arrange the tater tots in a single, even layer over the cheese.
  6. Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
  7. If you like it extra cheesy, sprinkle on a little more cheddar and pop it back in the oven for 5 minutes until melted.
  8. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving for a fresh pop of color.

Notes

This cowboy casserole is incredibly versatile. You can add more vegetables or swap the beef for turkey for a lighter version. The tater tots provide a delightful crispy topping that complements the creamy filling.