Hello friends, Chef André here.
If there’s one dinner that screams comfort, family, and pure satisfaction, it’s Cowboy Casserole. This hearty baked dish layers seasoned ground beef, corn, creamy sauce, melty cheese, and crispy tater tots into one irresistible meal that always disappears fast.
Cowboy Casserole is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table without complaints. It’s cozy, filling, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and familiar. Simple ingredients, big flavors, and that golden tater tot topping make this a true classic.
Why This Cowboy Casserole Is Always a Hit
This recipe is loved because it’s:
- Easy to make with pantry staples
- Perfect for feeding a hungry family
- Creamy inside with crispy tater tots on top
- Great for leftovers and reheating
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Pure comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Casserole Base
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Creamy Layer
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
Cheesy Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Crispy Finish
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.
Step 2
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 3
Season beef with salt and pepper.
Step 4
Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and corn. Mix until well combined.
Step 5
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
Step 6
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.
Step 7
Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Step 8
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until tater tots are golden and crispy. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Chef André’s Tips for the Best Cowboy Casserole
- Drain beef well to avoid sogginess
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor
- Bake uncovered for crispy tots
- Let it rest before serving
Simple tricks make a big difference.
Easy Variations to Try
- Add cooked bacon bits
- Swap corn for green beans
- Use ground turkey instead of beef
- Add a dash of smoked paprika
Customize it to your taste.
What to Serve with Cowboy Casserole
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Simple green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Pickles or coleslaw
Balanced and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep tots crispy
For safe handling of cooked beef, follow USDA Food Safety guidelines:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
FAQ – Cowboy Casserole
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and bake later.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Freeze before baking for best results.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes, cream of chicken also works.
Do kids like this recipe?
Absolutely—it’s a favorite.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: ~560 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 36 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
Values vary by cheese and portion size.
Final Words from Chef André
This Cowboy Casserole is everything a comfort dinner should be—warm, cheesy, crispy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a regular in family meal rotations for a very good reason.
If you try it, tell me—extra cheese or extra tater tots?
Chef André 👨🍳