Description
Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and packed with savory ground meat, beans, and cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether served as a casserole, chili, or stew, this versatile dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying cozy dinners at home.
Ingredients
For the Cowboy Casserole (or Chili/Stew)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained, rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained, rinsed)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed. - Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant. - Add the Beans and Corn:
Stir in the drained kidney beans, black beans, and frozen corn. Mix well to combine. - Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Add the diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, ranch seasoning mix, and taco seasoning mix. Stir until everything is well incorporated. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Assemble the Casserole:
If you’re making a casserole, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with shredded cheddar cheese. - Bake to Perfection:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. - Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. If you’re making chili or stew, serve immediately. Add a dollop of sour cream and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by adding diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper.
- Layer extra cheese into the filling for a cheesier casserole.
- To make it vegetarian, skip the meat and double the beans.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish freezes well—assemble the casserole but don’t bake it, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: American