Cowboy Casserole

The ultimate comfort food with ground beef, tater tots, cheese, and creamy goodness all in one hearty dish!

Cowboy Casserole is a warm and filling family-friendly dish made with layers of ground beef, corn, creamy soup, cheese, and crispy tater tots. It’s quick to prep, easy to bake, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. This comforting classic is always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (15 oz) can corn, drained

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

½ cup sour cream

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

1 (28–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned and fully cooked.

Drain excess grease.

Make the Filling
Stir in the corn, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Top with tater tots, arranged in a single layer.

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until tots are golden and crispy.

Add Cheese & Finish
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.

Return to oven for another 5 minutes, or until melted.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or steamed green beans

Perfect for potlucks, busy nights, or meal prep

Can be frozen before or after baking!

Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days

Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the tater tots crispy

Freeze before baking for up to 2 months