Description
A hearty and comforting Bacon Cowboy Casserole featuring a savory ground beef and corn filling topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling:
- 1/2 lb ground beef (85/15)
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2/3 cup condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
For the Topping:
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Add corn, condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, whole milk, sour cream, onion powder, black pepper, and crumbled bacon to the browned beef. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking pan. Top with 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, then arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake Casserole: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until tater tots are golden brown and filling is bubbling.
- Add Final Cheese Layer: Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over casserole. Return to oven and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts. Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes for extra color.
Notes
- Using 85/15 ground beef balances flavor and fat content.
- Arrange tater tots in a single layer for even crispiness.
- Broil at the end for a golden cheese crust if desired.
- This casserole serves 4 hearty portions.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 21 minutes
- Cook Time: 44 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Bacon Cowboy Casserole, tater tot casserole, ground beef casserole, comfort food, easy dinner recipe
