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Cowboy Casserole brings together the best comfort food elements - juicy ground beef in a silky sauce, hearty veggies, and golden hash browns topped with melted cheese. This easy dish works great for family dinners, potlucks, or just when you need a warming meal everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Casserole
This one-dish wonder saves the day during busy weeknights or friendly gatherings. It uses budget-friendly, simple ingredients that pack tons of flavor. Kids can't resist the creamy base, crunchy potatoes and gooey cheese. It's also perfect for freezing ahead to make meal planning easier.
Key Ingredients You'll Need
- Ground Beef: 450g browned and crumbled for a tasty foundation.
- Mushroom Soup: 300g creating that rich, velvety texture.
- Frozen Corn: 150g adding sweetness - drained canned corn works too.
- Cheddar: 100g shredded and layered throughout for extra indulgence.
- Hash Browns: 900g frozen for that irresistible crispy topping.
- Sour Cream: 120ml bringing creaminess to the mixture.
- Seasonings: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt and black pepper to boost flavors.
Easy Step-by-Step Method
- Heat Your Oven
- Set to 190°C and lightly grease a 23x33cm baking dish.
- Brown the Beef
- Cook 450g ground beef over medium heat, then drain. Add chopped onion and garlic, cook about 3 minutes.
- Mix Your Sauce
- Combine mushroom soup, 120ml sour cream and 120ml milk. Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Layer Everything
- Mix beef, onion, corn and 50g shredded cheddar with the sauce. Spread in the dish.
- Add Potato Topping
- Arrange frozen hash browns in a single layer over the mixture.
- Bake Until Bubbly
- Cook for 25-30 minutes. Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top and bake 5 more minutes. Let cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Want super crispy potatoes? Spray them lightly with oil before baking. Kick up the flavor by adding Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the meat mixture. To keep cheese from burning, try tucking it under the hash browns.
Tasty Twists on the Classic
Switch things up by using turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add Mexican spices for Tex-Mex flavor or go vegetarian with black beans instead of meat. Spice lovers can toss in some jalapeños or green chilies.
What to Serve Alongside
Balance this filling casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. Cornbread or garlic bread makes a great addition for extra comfort. Top with a dollop of sour cream and fresh parsley or green onions to brighten up each serving.
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Storing and Warming Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days. Want to freeze it? Assemble the casserole without baking and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and cook according to directions, adding 5-10 extra minutes if needed. Warm individual portions in the microwave or in a 175°C oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can this dish be prepped early?
Sure! Cook the meat and make the sauce a day ahead. Add the tater tots just before baking so they stay crispy.
- → Is it freezer-friendly?
You can freeze the meat and sauce base, but add fresh tater tots before baking for the best texture.
- → What variations can I try?
Feel free to toss in green beans, bell peppers, or swap the corn for your favorite veggies. Ground turkey works great instead of beef too.
- → How do I know it’s done?
The tater tots should be golden and crispy, the cheese melted and slightly browned, and the sauce bubbling and hot.
- → What sides pair well?
A crisp green salad goes nicely with this hearty dish. Steamed green veggies are also a great option.