Cowboy comfort casserole (Printable Version)
Hearty casserole with ground beef, bacon, corn, cheese, and crispy tater tots for a cozy dinner.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Meat
01 -
1 pound ground beef (85/15)
02 -
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
→ Vegetables
03 -
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
→ Dairy
04 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
05 -
1/4 cup milk
06 -
1/4 cup sour cream
→ Pantry
07 -
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
08 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Toppings
10 -
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no pink remains, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat, leaving some for flavor.
02 -
Add corn, cream of mushroom soup, half of the shredded cheddar, milk, sour cream, onion powder, black pepper, and crumbled bacon to the skillet with beef. Stir until well combined and creamy.
03 -
Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the mixture, then arrange tater tots in a single layer on top without overlapping.
04 -
Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, until tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the edges are bubbling.
05 -
Sprinkle any remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted and bubbly. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Do not drain all beef fat; leaving some adds flavor but avoid excess grease.
02 -
Arrange tater tots in a single layer for even crispiness.
03 -
Use frozen tater tots directly from the bag; no thawing required.
04 -
Let casserole rest briefly after baking to firm up for easier serving.