Cowboy Casserole Recipe
Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together ground beef, corn, black beans, and crispy tater tots for a classic, down-home meal. It’s a simple recipe that…
By Ava
•
•
Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together ground beef, corn, black beans, and crispy tater tots for a classic, down-home meal. It’s a simple recipe that has loads of flavor and a bit of crunch on top, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
I love making this casserole because it’s such a crowd-pleaser and comes together quickly with ingredients I usually have on hand. It’s like a warm, cozy hug after a long day, and the combination of beans, cheese, and those golden tater tots makes every bite so satisfying. Plus, you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add a little spice if you like.
My favorite way to serve Cowboy Casserole is with a side of fresh, crisp salad or some sliced avocado to brighten it up. It’s great for feeding family or friends without a lot of fuss, and leftovers are just as tasty the next day. Whenever I make this dish, it reminds me of easy dinners growing up and sharing simple meals that everyone could enjoy together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the main protein and gives the casserole a rich flavor. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian? Try cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Tater tots: They add crunch and fun texture on top. If you can’t find tots, try frozen hash browns or even homemade roasted potatoes. Just make sure they get crispy in the oven.
Black beans & corn: These bring heartiness and a touch of sweetness. If you prefer, use pinto beans or kidney beans. Fresh corn can replace frozen if in season.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt beautifully with a mild, creamy taste. If you want a sharper flavor, try pepper jack or add some smoked gouda. For lactose intolerance, use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Get Crispy Tater Tots Without Soggy Topping?
Getting your tater tots crispy on top is key to this casserole’s appeal. Here are some tips:
- Don’t cover the casserole while baking; leave it uncovered so the tots can brown.
- Arrange tots in a single, even layer for consistent crispness.
- Preheat the oven fully before putting the casserole in to help the tots start crisping immediately.
- If you want extra crunch, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
Following these steps means your tots will be golden and crunchy, adding a perfect texture contrast to the melty cheese and savory beef mix below.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and tater tots to crisp up well.
- Large skillet – for browning ground beef and sautéing onions easily.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the beef mixture without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons – to add the right amount of spices and seasonings.
- Can opener – for opening beans and diced tomatoes smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter taste.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to boost freshness and a bit of heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy kick.
- Mix in black olives or chopped green chilies for extra zesty flavor.
How to Make Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Optional: sliced cherry tomatoes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a warm and filling casserole ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for assembling the casserole.
2. Cook the Beef and Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion. Stir often until the beef turns brown and the onion softens, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any extra fat from the pan.
3. Mix in the Extras:
Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir well and cook for 2-3 more minutes to combine the flavors. Then remove the pan from heat.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the beef and bean mixture evenly in your baking dish. Sprinkle both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Finally, lay the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
5. Bake and Serve:
Place the casserole in your oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tater tots turn crisp and golden, and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with green onions, cilantro or parsley, and optional cherry tomatoes. Add dollops of sour cream when serving for a creamy finishing touch. Enjoy your hearty Cowboy Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting. This helps cook it evenly and prevents extra moisture in the skillet.
Can I Make Cowboy Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. To keep the tater tots crispy, reheat briefly in a hot oven or toaster oven.
Can I Substitute the Tater Tots with Something Else?
Yes! Frozen hash browns or chopped roasted potatoes work well as alternatives. Just make sure they are spread evenly to help them crisp up nicely during baking.