Cowboy casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, beans, corn, and a creamy sauce, all topped with crispy tater tots. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for family dinners or potluck gatherings. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to create the ultimate cowboy casserole, ensuring that it becomes a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To make the perfect cowboy casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredient Quantity
Lean ground beef 1 pound
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Onion, finely chopped 1
Corn, drained (15 oz can) 1 can
Black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz can) 1 can
Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can) 1 can
Shredded Colby Cheddar cheese blend 1 cup
Skim milk 1/2 cup
Sour cream 1/2 cup
Frozen tater tots (32 oz bag) 1 bag
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This ensures that your casserole does not stick to the dish and is easy to serve.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Next, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the casserole by incorporating the aromatics directly into the beef.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
