Go Back
–+ servings
Save This Recipe Form

Don’t lose this recipe!

Put in your email, and we’ll deliver it straight to your inbox. You’ll also get weekly recipe suggestions based on what you love. Opt-out anytime – no strings attached!

Easy Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and crispy tater tots, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Ready in under 40 minutes, it's an easy, no-fuss dinner perfect for busy weeknights using common pantry ingredients. My family loves it, and it's a hit at holidays, Superbowl Sunday, and potlucks.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe [btn-google-source]
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cowboy casserole
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 210kcal
Author: Mandy Applegate

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 package tater tots
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons Mexican taco seasoning
  • 1 can crushed roasted tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn canned, drained
  • 2 cups Mexican shredded cheese
  • Cilantro
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 180ºC (355ºF).
  • Heat a non-stick skillet to medium-high and add the beef. Cook until browned, breaking it frequently until no more lumps remain.
    1 pound lean ground beef
  • Add the onion, garlic, and taco seasoning, and cook for a few more minutes.
    1 onion, 3 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons Mexican taco seasoning
  • Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for 10 more minutes. Adjust salt and pepper. Stir in the corn and green bell pepper and mix well.
    1 can crushed roasted tomatoes, 1 cup corn, 1 green bell pepper
  • Grease a baking dish with cooking spray and transfer the meat mixture.
  • Top with the tater tots arranged in diagonal lines, and cover with the cheese.
    1 package tater tots, 2 cups Mexican shredded cheese
  • Bake for 12 minutes, or until bubbly.
  • Serve with fresh cilantro.
    Cilantro

Notes

  • Lean Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef helps keep the casserole from being too greasy. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Tater Tots: For extra crispiness, you can partially bake the tater tots before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they stay crunchy even after baking.
  • Cheese: Mexican shredded cheese blend works great, but feel free to use your favorite cheese, like cheddar or a spicy pepper jack, for an extra kick.
  • Vegetables: This recipe is versatile. You can add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Black beans, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes can be great additions.
  • Seasoning: Don’t skip the taco seasoning. It adds a depth of flavor that makes the dish pop. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
  • Tomatoes: Crushed roasted tomatoes add a nice smoky flavor. If you can’t find them, regular crushed tomatoes work just fine.
  • Layering: Make sure to spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in the baking dish. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
  • Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden but not too browned.
  • Serving: Garnish with fresh cilantro right before serving to add a burst of freshness. You can also serve it with a side of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor.
  • Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 265mg | Potassium: 316mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 197mg | Iron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!