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Cheesy cowboy casserole fresh out of the oven in a cast-iron dish.

Cowboy Casserole Recipe

This hearty cowboy casserole recipe is packed with ground beef, crispy tater tots, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce perfect for family dinners!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend for best flavor
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 bag frozen tater tots about 32 oz
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika for extra flavor

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened.
  • Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 3 minutes.
  • Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef layer.
  • Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top.
  • Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add diced green chiles or a sprinkle of bacon bits.
Keyword Comfort Food