Cowboy Casserole

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess fat.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, drained corn, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and milk. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the mixture.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
6. Add Cheese: If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions if desired and serve hot.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cowboy Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add a can of green beans or mixed vegetables for extra nutrition and variety.
• Cheese Choices: Swap out the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, Colby, or your favorite cheese blend.
• Spicy Kick: Add a can of diced green chilies or some diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Ground Meat: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.

Food and Drink Pairings

Cowboy Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For drinks, a cold glass of iced tea, a light beer, or even a hearty red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon would complement the flavors nicely.