Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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Cook Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 pound ground sirloin
• 8 ounces hot pork country sausage (such as Jimmy Dean)
• 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (such as Campbell's)
• cup whole milk
• cup sour cream
• teaspoon kosher salt
• teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 cups shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (32 ounce) package frozen tater tots
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) with a rack in the center position.

Step 2: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy, about 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon, reserving 2 tablespoons of the drippings in the skillet.

Step 3: Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the reserved bacon drippings. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 4 minutes.

Step 4: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground sirloin and hot pork country sausage to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is crumbly, browned, and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 5: Add the garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat, and if necessary, drain off any excess fat.

Step 6: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, sour cream, kosher salt, and black pepper into the meat mixture. Add the frozen corn, bacon, and cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything until well combined.

Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Then, arrange the frozen tater tots in concentric circles on top of the cheese layer. (You may have about 1 cups of tater tots left over; save them for another use.)

Step 8: Bake the dish in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and the beef mixture is bubbling, about 35 minutes.

Step 9: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1/8 of the recipe):

• Calories: 730
• Total Fat: 46g (59% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 18g (89% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 129mg (43% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1355mg (59% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 44g (16% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 38g (76% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 38mg (42% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 393mg (30% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (18% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 909mg (19% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Recipe developed by: Andrea Lobas

History and Origins of Cowboy Casserole

The Cowboy Casserole, often referred to as Tater Tot Casserole, is a quintessential American comfort food. The dish is believed to have originated in the Midwest, a region known for hearty, filling meals designed to feed large families. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation made it a popular choice for busy households, especially on working farms where time was limited, and leftovers were always welcome. It combines staple ingredients such as ground beef, bacon, cheese, and frozen tater tots, offering both warmth and nutrition in every bite.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

While the Cowboy Casserole is commonly associated with the Midwest, it has become popular throughout the United States, with many regional variations. In the South, for example, some recipes may include jalapeos or hot sausage for an extra kick. In the Southwest, black beans or corn can be added, reflecting the region's love for bold flavors. Despite these regional twists, the core ingredientsbeef, cheese, and tater totsremain the same. It's a versatile dish, allowing families to adapt it to local tastes and ingredient availability.

Distinction from Similar Dishes

Cowboy Casserole is often compared to other similar baked dishes like Tater Tot Hotdish, which is popular in Minnesota. However, what sets Cowboy Casserole apart is the inclusion of both bacon and sausage, adding a richer flavor profile. Additionally, the dish uses a creamy base of sour cream and condensed soup, which distinguishes it from the more straightforward meat-and-potato casserole variations found elsewhere. The crispy tater tots on top are a signature feature, offering a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling beneath.

Where Its Typically Served

Cowboy Casserole is a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and casual dinners. Its often served in homes where comfort and ease are key, as it can be prepared in advance and stored for later. Its also commonly featured in church socials, school events, and community dinners, where large servings are required. Because of its ability to feed a crowd, it is ideal for both busy families and social gatherings alike.

Interesting Facts About Cowboy Casserole

• Despite its name, the Cowboy Casserole doesn't have any direct connection to actual cowboys. The name likely reflects its hearty, no-nonsense nature, fit for a working man.
• The use of tater tots is a relatively recent addition to casseroles, dating back to the mid-20th century when frozen foods became widely available.
• The casserole is an incredibly customizable dish. Many variations substitute tater tots with hash browns, or switch out the meat for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Leftovers from Cowboy Casserole often taste even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 pound ground sirloin
• 8 ounces hot pork country sausage
• 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 1/2 cups shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (32 ounce) package frozen tater tots
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) with a rack in the center position.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon until browned and crisp, about 7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, reserving 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
3. In the same skillet, saut onion and bell pepper in the drippings until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the ground beef and sausage, cooking until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Remove from heat and drain excess fat. Stir in soup, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Add corn, bacon, and 1/2 cup of cheese.
5. Spread the beef mixture into a casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese and arrange tater tots in concentric circles on top.
6. Bake for 35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with parsley and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Cowboy Casserole!

FAQ about Cowboy Casserole Recipe

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