Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cowboy Casserole

Cowboy Casserole

Cowboy Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pan dish that combines savory ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, tangy diced tomatoes, sweet corn, and creamy cheddar cheese, all topped with crispy corn chips. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a satisfying meal with robust wild west flavors and easy customization options.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 to 1½ cups crushed corn chips

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper, or to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup black beans or kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
  3. Layer the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle evenly with corn kernels and optional beans if using. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add the remaining beef mixture on top followed by the rest of the cheese.
  4. Add the Crunch: Sprinkle crushed corn chips over the top layer to create a crispy crust that contrasts with the creamy cheese.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the corn chips are golden brown.

Notes

  • Don’t skip draining the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
  • Use fresh chili powder and cumin for the best flavor.
  • Crush the corn chips just before topping to keep them crispy.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
  • Try adding your favorite beans to boost texture and nutrition.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6th of casserole)
  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: cowboy casserole, ground beef casserole, one-pan meal, comfort food, easy dinner, gluten-free casserole