Description

This Cowboy Casserole stands out with its hearty flavor, featuring ground beef, tater tots, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to the table!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1 cup barbecue sauce or tomato-based sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag (about 16 oz) frozen tater tots
2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
Drain any excess fat. Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Add the corn, black beans (if using), drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and barbecue sauce to the beef. Stir everything together and cook for 3-4 minutes to heat through.
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a casserole dish.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tater tots.
Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the tater tots are crisp and golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve with sour cream or salsa if desired.

Notes

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix for extra nutrition.
You can use shredded chicken or turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
Make it ahead by preparing everything and refrigerating it before baking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 860mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 85mg