What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt works well. For dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or a soy-based alternative.

Can I double this cowboy casserole recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely. Use a large baking dish or two 9×13 pans. Bake slightly longer and rotate pans for even browning.

How long does cowboy casserole last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

No. Use them straight from the freezer. Thawed tots may turn mushy during baking.

Can I make cowboy casserole without cream of mushroom soup?

Yes. Use cream of celery or cream of chicken, or make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and broth.

Easy Comfort Food Reimagined: Cowboy Casserole That Wins Every Time

Easy Comfort Food Reimagined

Print Recipe

Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly baked dish made with seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, cheese, and crispy tater tots. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Author: Benchi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Kosher

Ingredients

1/2 pound ground beef (85/15)
1 cup corn
2/3 cup condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/3 cup whole milk
1/4 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
32 ounces frozen tater tots

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in corn, cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, onion powder, black pepper, and crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined.
Spread the beef mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with frozen tater tots in a single, even layer.
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.

Notes

You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup.
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well in place of beef.
Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream.
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or taco seasoning to the beef mixture.
Make ahead by assembling the casserole and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking.

Find it online: https://www.cookwithbenchi.com/cowboy-casserole/