This Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish packed with flavors. It features ground beef, corn, and creamy potatoes that all come together beautifully in one pan!
I love how easy it is to whip up this casserole for a family dinner. Just mix everything in one dish and let the oven do the work—perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole. Lean ground beef works best for less grease. If you want a healthier option, you could substitute ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Bell Pepper: Diced green bell pepper adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you want to switch it up, red, yellow, or orange peppers can be used for added sweetness.
Corn: Canned corn is convenient, but you can also use frozen corn or even fresh corn cut off the cob when in season. Both options provide great texture!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you prefer a different bean, kidney beans or pinto beans make good substitutions. You can skip them entirely too, if desired.
Diced Tomatoes: I recommend using tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor. Plain diced tomatoes work too; just consider adding a pinch of chili powder or crushed red pepper for spice.
What’s the Best Way to Get Perfectly Cooked Biscuits on Top?
The biscuits add that special touch to your casserole, but getting them just right is key. Here’s how to ensure they cook perfectly:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before baking.
- Place the biscuits evenly on top of the beef mixture. This allows them to bake uniformly.
- Watch closely in the last few minutes of baking. If they start browning too quickly, you can cover them lightly with foil.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to scoop out portions.
These tips will help you enjoy a delicious Cowboy Casserole that your family will love!
Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (8.5 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade biscuit dough)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cowboy Casserole recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and approximately 25-30 minutes for cooking. From start to finish, you’ll spend around 45-50 minutes preparing this delicious meal that your whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready and hot for the casserole when you’re done preparing it.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is softened and fragrant—this should take around 3-4 minutes.
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish flavorful and not greasy.
4. Mix in the Flavor:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Then add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, black beans (if you’re using them), and green bell peppers. Mix everything together well, cooking for another 5 minutes to let those beautiful flavors meld together.
5. Add Liquids:
Pour the beef broth or water into the mixture and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This helps to make it nice and moist for the casserole.
6. Combine with Baking Dish:
Transfer the beef and veggie mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Biscuit Layer:
Open the biscuit dough. Arrange the biscuits evenly on top of the beef mixture, making sure they are spaced apart for even cooking.
8. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the biscuits, adding that delicious melty layer on top.
9. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let it Rest:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool. This will help to set it slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this hearty Cowboy Casserole full of flavor. Perfect for bringing the family together around the dinner table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef in this casserole. Just make sure to season it well, as it can be a little milder in flavor.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding to the beef mixture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute. You can also increase the amount of beans and veggies for heartiness!
