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Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots and Cheese

Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots and Cheese
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Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots and Cheese is a hearty, comforting one-dish meal combining crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, melted cheese, and classic vegetables. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or relaxed family gatherings, offering bold southwestern flavors and easy customization options.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or blend of cheddar and mozzarella/pepper jack)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or salsa
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 cup beans (black beans or pinto, drained and rinsed)
  • Diced jalapeños (for spicy variation)
  • Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Veggies and Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
  2. Mix in Tomato Sauce and Optional Ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce or salsa to moisten the mixture. If using, add corn and/or beans, and cook on low heat for a few minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in a casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, then cover with a single layer of frozen tater tots, packing them tightly together.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake the casserole for 30 to 35 minutes or until the tater tots are crisp and golden brown, and the cheese underneath is melted and bubbling.
  5. Let It Rest: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.

Notes

  • Pre-cook tater tots for 10 minutes before assembly for extra crispiness.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
  • Brown beef in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
  • Let casserole cool slightly before serving for easier portioning.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for added freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy casserole, tater tots casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy tater tots, easy dinner, family meal, gluten free casserole

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/cowboy-casserole-with-tater-tots-and-cheese/