Absolutely! Here’s a hearty, detailed recipe for Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots — a comforting, creamy, cheesy, meaty casserole that’s topped with golden, crispy tater tots. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to make and great for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead.
🤠 Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots (Serves 6–8)
⏰ Total Time:
Prep time: 15–20 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total: ~1 hour
📝 Ingredients
🥩 Meat & Veggies:
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for a Southwestern kick)
🧄 Creamy Filling:
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
🥔 Topping:
1 (28–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Optional: extra cheese or bacon bits on top
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
🥘 Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook:
Ground beef
Diced onion
Garlic
Salt, pepper, paprika, and optional seasonings
Break up the meat and sauté until fully browned and onions are soft (about 7–8 minutes).
Drain excess grease.
🧀 Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture
Reduce heat to low and stir in:
Cream of mushroom soup
Sour cream
Milk
Corn
Optional green onions
1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese
Stir until well combined and heated through (2–3 minutes).
🧱 Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the beef and creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Smooth out evenly with a spatula.
Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
You can align them in neat rows or scatter them — your choice!
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar on top of the tater tots.
📝 Optional: Add cooked crumbled bacon or jalapeño slices for extra flavor.
🔥 Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered at 375°F for 35–40 minutes, or until:
Tater tots are golden and crispy
Filling is bubbly around the edges
🧀 Optional: Broil the last 2–3 minutes for extra crispy top — watch carefully!
🌿 Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Let cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with:
Chopped parsley or green onions
Crumbled bacon or hot sauce drizzle (optional)
Serve hot and enjoy that creamy, crunchy, cheesy bite!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
A crisp green salad or coleslaw
Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
Pickles or jalapeños for a tangy contrast
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Oven: 350°F for 20–25 minutes (best for crispiness)
Microwave: 1–2 minutes per serving
Air fryer: 350°F for 5–6 minutes to re-crisp the top
🔄 Variations
🐖 Meat Swaps:
Ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or pulled pork
Try a combo of bacon + beef for bold cowboy flavor
🧀 Cheese Options:
Pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Colby blend
Add Velveeta for extra creaminess
🌶️ Spice It Up:
Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or taco seasoning
Mix in a can of diced green chiles
🧄 From-Scratch Version:
Replace cream of soup with a homemade roux (butter + flour + milk + broth + sautéed mushrooms)
🥣 Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips
Make Ahead (1–2 Days in Advance):
Assemble the casserole (uncooked)
Cover tightly and refrigerate
Bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes to cook time if chilled
Freeze (Up to 2 Months):
Assemble in a disposable pan, wrap tightly with foil
Label and freeze
To bake from frozen: cover with foil, bake at 375°F for 45 mins, then uncover and bake 20 more mins until golden
Want a vegetarian version, a low-carb twist (with cauliflower tots), or a Tex-Mex variant? Just let me know and I’ll customize it for you!