Cattle Drive Casserole

Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. Packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and a cheesy, golden topping, this casserole is a cowboy-worthy meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven

Ingredients Overview

• Ground Beef: The protein-packed base of the casserole.
• Seasonings: A flavorful mix of taco seasoning, salt, and pepper for bold taste.
• Vegetables: Diced tomatoes and green chilies add a zesty kick.
• Creamy Base: Cream of mushroom soup and sour cream create a rich, creamy layer.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend melts beautifully over the top.
• Tater Tots: A crispy, satisfying topping that seals the deal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Drain any excess grease, then stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), and 1 can of cream of mushroom soup. Mix well.

3. Layer the Ingredients

1. Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Top with a layer of sour cream (about 1 cup).
3. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the sour cream layer.

4. Add the Tater Tots

Arrange a layer of frozen tater tots over the cheese. You can line them up neatly or simply spread them out evenly.

5. Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

6. Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Customize the filling: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it spicier: Use hot diced tomatoes and green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese options: Try pepper jack or Colby Jack for a different cheesy flavor.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• A simple green salad with ranch dressing
• Cornbread or dinner rolls
• Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze Cattle Drive Casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Can I use a different topping instead of tater tots?
Certainly! Mashed potatoes, hash browns, or even a layer of biscuits can work as a topping.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess grease. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cream of mushroom soup.
3. Spread the beef mixture into the baking dish.
4. Layer with sour cream, cheese, and tater tots.
5. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and enjoy!

This Cattle Drive Casserole is a satisfying, easy-to-make dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Cattle Drive Casserole

Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. Packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and a cheesy, golden topping, this casserole is a cowboy-worthy meal that's easy to make and even easier to love.

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Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls 
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
• 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess grease. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cream of mushroom soup.
• Spread the beef mixture into the baking dish.
• Layer with sour cream, cheese, and tater tots.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Serve and enjoy!
• This Cattle Drive Casserole is a satisfying, easy-to-make dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!