Ingredients for Easy Cowboy Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Easy Cowboy Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef: The star of the show! It adds a savory depth to the dish.
- Onion: Diced onion brings a sweet and aromatic flavor that enhances the beef.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This creamy base ties everything together, making it rich and comforting.
- Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the flavors beautifully.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar gives that classic cheesy goodness we all love.
- mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey topping.
- Tater tots: The crispy crown of this casserole! They add texture and fun to every bite.
- Worcestershire sauce: A splash of this sauce brings a savory umami flavor that elevates the dish.
- Smoked paprika: This spice adds a subtle smokiness that makes the casserole even more delicious.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Green onions: Sliced for garnish, they add a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
Feel free to get creative! You can toss in some bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for beef. And remember, the exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience!
How to Make Easy Cowboy Casserole
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Easy Cowboy Casserole! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to break up the meat. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat. This step is crucial for keeping the casserole from becoming greasy!
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Next, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings are the secret to a flavorful Easy Cowboy Casserole. Mix everything well, allowing the spices to coat the beef mixture evenly. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Now, it’s time to make it creamy! Add the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This mixture will be the heart of your casserole, adding richness and depth to every bite.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. This ensures that every scoop of your Easy Cowboy Casserole is packed with flavor!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Tater Tots
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the beef mixture. Then, arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer. This crispy topping is what makes this casserole so fun and delicious. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the tater tots are golden and crispy. For the final touch, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until melted. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!