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Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole

Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole to Warm Your Soul

This Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole is a comforting meal that combines savory meats, flavorful beans, and cheese, making it a must-try dish for cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course One-Pot Meals
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • skillet
  • baking dish
  • mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Mixture

  • 1 pound lean ground beef provides a hearty base for the casserole
  • 1 pound pork sausage adds rich flavor; substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option
  • 1 medium yellow onion enhances the overall taste
  • 1 medium green bell pepper for sweetness and crunch
  • 2 cloves garlic delivers a fragrant touch

For the Beans and Tomatoes

  • 2 cans baked beans in tomato sauce adds sweetness and heartiness
  • 1 can kidney beans packed with protein
  • 1 can pinto beans enhances the texture
  • 1 can diced tomatoes offers moisture

For the Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup binds everything together
  • 1 cup beef broth adds moisture; use chicken broth for lighter taste
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce brings a sweet tang
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste thickens the sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce adds umami kick
  • 1 tablespoon mustard for a zesty twist
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder complements the spices
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for savory smokiness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin contributes earthy note
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano enhances herb flavor
  • to taste salt season to taste
  • to taste black pepper season to taste
  • optional to taste crushed red pepper flakes for added kick

For the Cheesy Topping

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese brings strong flavor
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese creates a melty topping

For the Corn and Oil

  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels brings sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil used for sautéing meat

For the Topping Options

  • 1 roll refrigerated biscuit dough for a comforting layer
  • 2 cups frozen tater tots adds a fun crunch
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter optional for brushing biscuits
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for extra flavor on biscuits
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for extra flavor on biscuits

For Serving (Optional but Recommended)

  • 1 cup sour cream adds creaminess
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions for garnish
  • ¼ cup pickled jalapeños for heat
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro adds color
  • to taste extra barbecue sauce for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and pork sausage; sauté for 6–8 minutes until browned.
  • Add diced yellow onion and green bell pepper; cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30–60 seconds.
  • Reduce heat to medium and add chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute.
  • Carefully stir in baked beans, drained kidney and pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and thawed corn. Mix well.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard until smooth. Pour over the meat mixture and stir to combine.
  • Simmer over medium-low heat for about 5–7 minutes, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
  • Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top.
  • If using biscuit dough, arrange pieces over the cheese. Alternatively, place tater tots in a single layer on top.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes if using biscuits, or 30–35 minutes if using tater tots until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Remove from oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving with optional garnishes.
  • Serve hot and enjoy the comforting layers of your Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for better flavor. Allow the casserole to rest before serving for the best texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg
Keyword casserole, comfort food, Cozy Gatherings, customizable recipe, Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole, Hearty Meals
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