Easy Cowgirl Cheesy Casserole

This easy, cheesy Cowgirl Casserole is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. It combines the comforting flavors of creamy soup, tender rotisserie chicken, and golden hashbrowns into one hearty dish that everyone will enjoy.

I first made this casserole when I needed a simple yet flavorful meal to feed a crowd. It quickly became a favorite that keeps showing up at our family table.

Ingredients

• Cream of chicken soup: 10.5 ounces adds a creamy base and rich flavor look for a good quality brand without too many additives
• Sour cream: 1 cup brings a tangy smoothness that lightens the dish use full fat for creamier texture
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 10 ounces undrained add subtle heat and juiciness try to find a mild variety if you prefer less spice
• Frozen fire-roasted corn: 1 cup delivers sweetness and smoky notes fire-roasted gives a deeper flavor
• Ranch seasoning mix: 1-ounce packet infuses zesty herbs and spices fresh packets tend to have more vibrant flavor
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups for gooeyness and sharpness choose a good aged cheddar for best taste
• Montreal steak seasoning: 2 teaspoons adds savory, peppery notes that elevate the chicken
• Rotisserie chicken: 3 cups skin removed and shredded provides tender protein and adds convenience store-bought or homemade both work well
• Frozen hashbrowns with onions and peppers: 30-ounce package creates a crispy, flavorful crust opt for seasoned hashbrowns for extra taste
• Optional garnishes: sliced green onions and fresh cilantro bring brightness and fresh aroma to balance the richness of the casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish by spraying it lightly with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps the casserole brown beautifully.

Mix the Creamy Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including their juices), frozen corn, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, Ranch seasoning mix, and Montreal steak seasoning. Stir everything together until smooth and well blended.

Add the Chicken:

Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken until all pieces are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Set this filling aside while you prepare the layers.

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread half of the frozen hashbrowns evenly on the bottom of your prepared dish. Spoon the chicken mixture over the hashbrowns and spread it out in an even layer. Top this with the remaining hashbrowns, gently pressing them into the chicken mixture to create a compact layer. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.

Bake Covered:

Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This covers the edges and helps the filling heat through without drying out.

Bake Uncovered:

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling, the hashbrowns on top are golden brown, and the cheese is completely melted. If you want an extra crispy top, place under the broiler for a few minutes watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Rest and Garnish:

Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro before serving for a fresh finish.

Save

My favorite ingredient is definitely the Ranch seasoning mix because it adds that unmistakable tangy, herby flavor that ties everything together. One time, I brought this casserole to a friends reunion, and it disappeared faster than anything else on the table.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, cover tightly and use within three months. Reheat in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use shredded cooked turkey instead of chicken for a slightly different but equally delicious result. You can swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom to give a earthier flavor. Fresh corn can replace frozen if you have it on hand, just reduce the amount slightly to avoid excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to add more freshness and balance the richness of the casserole. A side of warm dinner rolls or crusty bread rounds out the meal perfectly.

Cultural Context

This hearty casserole reflects the comforting, no-fuss meals popular in American home cooking. Combining convenience ingredients with bold flavors makes it a perfect everyday classic that brings family and friends together.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded cooked turkey can be swapped in for a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ How can I achieve a crispy top layer?

Remove the foil during the last 25-30 minutes of baking and optionally broil briefly to brown the cheese and hashbrowns.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can assemble it and store covered in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months before baking.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich flavors nicely and add balance to the meal.

→ Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Fresh corn can be used; just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure the corn is tender but not overcooked.