Cowboy Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, corn, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the cheese.
6. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Variations:

• Veggie Boost: Add green beans, peas, or mixed vegetables for extra nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for the beef.
• Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack for more cheesy goodness.
• Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning to the beef and top with salsa or jalapeños before baking.

Tips:

• For an extra-crispy topping, bake the tater tots separately for 10 minutes before layering them on the casserole.
• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—it helps the layers set.
• This dish freezes well—assemble up to the tater tot layer, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen with 10–15 extra minutes of cook time.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to keep the tots crisp.

Cowboy Casserole is a no-fuss recipe that delivers maximum comfort. With its creamy filling, cheesy layers, and crispy tater tot topping, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone ask for seconds.