In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty and satisfying nature of a well - crafted casserole. Today, we're diving into the realm of cowboy casserole, a mouth - watering twist on the classic Tater Tot casserole that's packed with the irresistible combination of cheese, bacon, and ground beef. This dish is not only a crowd - pleaser but also a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity.
Let's start with the ingredients. For the base of our cowboy casserole, you'll need one pound of lean ground beef. Lean ground beef provides a great source of protein and forms the heart of the dish. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium - high heat. As it cooks, break it up into small pieces using a wooden spoon. This ensures even cooking and a nice texture in the final casserole. While the beef is browning, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to season it. The salt enhances the flavor, and the pepper adds a subtle kick.
Next up, bacon. Six slices of crispy bacon are the perfect addition to this casserole. Cook the bacon in the same skillet where you browned the beef. The bacon will release its delicious fat, which will infuse the entire dish with a rich, smoky flavor. Once the bacon is cooked to a crispy perfection, remove it from the skillet and crumble it into small pieces. Set the bacon aside for later use.
Now, let's talk about the cheese. Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese are essential for this recipe. Cheddar cheese has a sharp and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef and bacon. You can use a combination of different cheddar cheeses, such as mild and sharp, to add depth to the flavor. As the casserole bakes, the cheese will melt and form a gooey, golden crust on top, making every bite a cheesy delight.
For the veggies, you have a lot of options. One cup of frozen mixed vegetables, like peas, carrots, and corn, is a great start. These vegetables add color, nutrients, and a bit of sweetness to the casserole. You can also customize the veggies based on your preferences. If you love broccoli, add some florets. Bell peppers are another excellent choice, as they come in different colors and add a fresh, crunchy element to the dish. Simply sauté the veggies in the bacon - flavored skillet for a few minutes until they start to soften.
To bind all the ingredients together, we'll use one can of cream of mushroom soup. Cream of mushroom soup is a classic ingredient in many casseroles. It adds a creamy texture and a savory flavor. Pour the soup into the skillet with the cooked beef and veggies. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The soup will thicken as it heats up, creating a delicious sauce for the casserole.
Now, it's time to assemble the casserole. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 - inch baking dish with some cooking spray. Spread the beef, veggie, and soup mixture evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Layer the tater tots on top of the mixture. Tater tots are the star of this casserole, adding a crispy exterior and a soft, potato - filled interior. Pour the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots, followed by the crumbled bacon.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. The foil helps to trap the heat and steam, ensuring that the ingredients inside cook evenly. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 - 20 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy - cheesy top layer.
Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set slightly. You can serve the cowboy casserole as a main dish, accompanied by a side salad or some garlic bread. It's also a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily feed a large crowd.
Customizing the cowboy casserole is where the fun really begins. If you're a fan of spicy food, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. For a more Italian twist, add some Italian seasoning and a handful of sun - dried tomatoes. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to give the casserole a unique flavor.
In conclusion, cowboy casserole is a delicious and easy - to - make dish that combines the best of comfort food ingredients. With its cheesy, bacon - filled goodness and customizable nature, it's sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy a taste of the wild west with this amazing cowboy casserole.