introduction
As the aroma of crispy bacon wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. There’s something special about gathering around a warm, hearty dish like Cowboy Casserole. It brings back memories of family dinners, laughter, and good times shared over a delicious meal. We all have those busy days when we need a simple yet satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy. This recipe matters because it combines the best of classic comfort food into one easy-to-make casserole. What makes Cowboy Casserole truly special is how it brings together flavors and textures that create a cozy, fulfilling experience, all served hot from the oven.
why make this recipe
Cowboy Casserole is the perfect meal for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners, yet it’s also a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. The combination of tater tots, bacon, and a creamy filling makes this dish both filling and comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables with the added spinach and corn. Why not treat your family to this delightful casserole that checks all the boxes for taste and simplicity?
how to make Pioneer Woman Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 (32-oz) bag tater tots
- 4 strips bacon
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 lb ground sirloin
- 1 (10.75-oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper, divided
- 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 8 oz shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Chives or scallions for topping
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Let the tater tots thaw slightly.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove it from the pan and chop it into pieces.
- In the same skillet with the bacon grease, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft.
- Add the ground sirloin to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and ½ tsp of black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chopped spinach and corn to the mixture. Stir until combined.
- In a baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly. Top with shredded cheese, then arrange the tater tots on top. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and the remaining black pepper.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Add the chopped bacon on top after baking. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or scallions.
how to serve Pioneer Woman Cowboy Casserole
Serve the Cowboy Casserole hot from the oven, allowing everyone to enjoy its cheesy, melted goodness. This dish pairs nicely with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the meal. Feel free to top each serving with extra chives or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
how to store Pioneer Woman Cowboy Casserole
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it in the oven until heated through. If you want to freeze it, cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. You can freeze it for up to two months.
tips to make Pioneer Woman Cowboy Casserole
- Make sure to thaw the tater tots slightly before baking to avoid a soggy texture.
- You can substitute ground sirloin with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for more color and flavor.
variation
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the beef mixture. For a vegetarian take, you could omit the meat and replace it with black beans or additional veggies.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach?
Yes, fresh spinach works well too. Just chop it into smaller pieces before adding it to the mixture.
How do I make it gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your tater tots are gluten-free.
Can I prepare Cowboy Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Cowboy Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 32-oz bag tater tots Thawed slightly before baking
- 4 strips bacon Cooked until crispy
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 lb ground sirloin
- 1 10.75-oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper, divided Reserve 1/4 tsp for topping
- 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 8 oz shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese For topping
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese For topping
- to taste chives or scallions For garnish
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Let the tater tots thaw slightly.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove and chop into pieces.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic in the bacon grease until soft.
- Add the ground sirloin to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and ½ tsp of black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chopped spinach and corn to the mixture and stir until combined.
Assembly and Baking
- In a baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese, then arrange the tater tots on top.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and the remaining black pepper.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Add the chopped bacon on top after baking and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chives or scallions before serving.