Name: Easy Cowboy Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper

Imagine a bubbling hot dish filled with layers of cheesy, beefy comfort, all nestled beneath golden tater tots. That’s exactly what you get with this Easy Cowboy Casserole. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that brings together the best of Tex-Mex flavors and down-home goodness. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for a potluck, or craving a stick-to-your-ribs weeknight dinner, this one-pan wonder hits the spot.

The combination of ground beef, creamy soup, and melted cheese makes each bite rich and flavorful, while the crispy tater tots on top add a delightful crunch. It’s a rustic dish with bold flavor and simple ingredients, which is probably why it has remained a beloved favorite for generations.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cowboy Casserole Recipe

This recipe is pure comfort food. It’s easy to make with just a few pantry staples and doesn’t require complicated steps or specialty ingredients. You can prep it ahead of time or even freeze it for later, which makes it ideal for busy households.

Beyond its simplicity, it delivers big on flavor. The creamy filling, seasoned meat, and crispy tater tot topping create a satisfying contrast in textures. It’s kid-approved and grown-up loved, making it a staple recipe worth keeping in rotation.

What Kind of Tater Tots Should I Use?

For the best results, go for classic frozen tater tots. They crisp up beautifully in the oven and offer that perfect crunchy bite. If you want a spicier kick, try seasoned or peppered tots. For a healthier option, sweet potato tots also work well and bring a touch of sweetness that balances the savory filling.

Ingredients for the Easy Cowboy Casserole Recipe

This casserole is built with pantry-friendly, budget-conscious ingredients that come together in the most delicious way. Each ingredient has a purpose—whether it’s adding creaminess, a savory kick, or a crispy topping. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: Adds hearty protein and rich, meaty flavor to the base of the casserole.
Onion: Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic base to balance the savory elements.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its sharp and pungent kick.
Cream of mushroom soup: Adds a creamy texture and savory depth that binds everything together.
Sour cream: Gives a slight tanginess and contributes to the creamy filling.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey texture and bold cheesy taste.
Frozen tater tots: The crispy crown that makes this casserole so fun and irresistible.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor.

How To Make the Easy Cowboy Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. As it cooks, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef is cooked through and the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 2: Mix in the Creamy Ingredients

Once the beef mixture is done, reduce the heat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s fully combined into a creamy filling.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the creamy beef mixture evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 4: Add the Tater Tots

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. There’s no need to thaw them—just pop them on straight from the freezer.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the casserole for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling underneath.

Serving and Storing the Easy Cowboy Casserole

This hearty dish feeds about 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or bringing to potlucks. The leftovers are just as tasty, if not better, the next day.

To store, let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

If you’re planning to make it ahead, assemble everything and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if going straight from fridge to oven.

What to Serve With Easy Cowboy Casserole?

Garlic Green Beans

Bright and fresh, these green beans add crunch and a pop of color to the plate. A touch of garlic butter ties it all together.

Buttery Cornbread

A warm slice of cornbread on the side makes every bite feel like a southern feast. It’s especially great for soaking up extra cheesy filling.

Crisp Garden Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette brings freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the casserole.

Roasted Broccoli

Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crisp-tender, this veggie side adds texture and depth.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you enjoy heat, a side of pickled jalapeños adds just the right amount of zing.

Sweet Tea or Lemonade

No southern-style dinner feels complete without a tall glass of something cold and sweet.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked in butter and herbs complement the beefy base of the casserole perfectly.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this easy cowboy casserole recipe, check out these other crowd-pleasing meals from the site:

Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for a cozy, Italian-inspired casserole.
Best Chicken and Rice Casserole that brings creamy comfort and easy prep to weeknights.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving a one-pan creamy pasta with big flavor.
Creamy Beef and Shells for a family-favorite dinner with cheesy goodness in every bite.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky, savory twist that comes together quickly.