This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s strategically brilliant for anyone feeding a family. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: It’s virtually impossible to find someone who doesn’t love the combination of beef, cheese, and potatoes.
Meal Prep Friendly: You can assemble the entire casserole hours in advance, or even the night before, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Budget-Friendly: It leverages affordable, easy-to-find ingredients without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or satisfaction.
Customizable & Forgiving: Don’t have an ingredient? We’ll provide easy swaps and additions to make it your own.
How to Make the Ultimate Cowboy Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe is straightforward, but a few pro tips will ensure your casserole is nothing short of legendary.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup beef broth or milk
1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 tsp smoked paprika (for that authentic Western flavor)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
The Method: