Cowboy Casserole Tater Tots

This down-home cowboy casserole is my go-to for busy weeknights when I want something cozy that everyone will clean their plates for. Perfectly savory with beef and bacon, comfortingly cheesy, and topped with golden tater tots, it is a true crowd-pleaser and never lasts long on the table.

I first tried this when hosting a last-minute neighborhood potluck and was amazed at how quickly it vanished. Now it is my top request for game nights or winter gatherings.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: choose 85 percent lean for just enough richness without too much grease
• Sharp cheddar cheese: gives a bold flavor and gooey texture choose the freshest block you can shred yourself for best melt
• Whole milk: helps loosen and enrich the filling with a silky texture whole works better than low fat
• Sour cream: adds tang and extra creaminess always use full fat for best flavor
• Cooked bacon: brings smoky depth and crunch use thick cut for the best bite
• Corn kernels: for a touch of sweetness frozen or canned both work just drain well if canned
• Frozen tater tots: deliver a golden crispy topping use premium brands for the best crunch and potato flavor
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup: classic binder for that nostalgic potluck casserole flavor choose a low sodium version if desired
• Onion powder: for gentle savoriness try to use a fresh or recently purchased jar for the most flavor
• Black pepper: finishes things off with gentle heat always use freshly ground for a little bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to one hundred ninety degrees Celsius and lightly grease your baking dish this prevents sticking and ensures an even bake

Brown the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef breaking it up as you go until it is evenly browned and no pink remains this step gives you a savory and flavorful base

Make the Mixture:

Add corn condensed soup half your cheese milk sour cream onion powder black pepper and crumbled bacon to the skillet stir very thoroughly until everything is fully combined and creamy

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread the beef mixture all over the bottom of your prepared dish so the filling is nice and even sprinkle the rest of the cheese over it then lay out your frozen tater tots in a single neat layer on top

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for around forty five minutes or until the tots are golden and crisp this time gives the most irresistible crust

Melt the Cheese:

Take the dish out add that last handful of cheese over the hot tater tots and return to the oven for just five minutes to let it melt and bubble up beautifully

Rest and Serve:

Let your casserole sit for about five minutes out of the oven before scooping this step makes it easier to serve and lets all the flavors come together

Pin it

My favorite part is that crispy cheesy tater tot topping especially straight out of the oven It always reminds me of winter weekends growing up when everyone would gather in the kitchen eager for a serving

Storage Tips

Once cool leftovers keep perfectly in an airtight container and will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days Reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven to keep the tater tots crispy The casserole can also be wrapped tightly and frozen before baking then popped in the oven straight from the freezer just add extra bake time

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack to switch up the cheese or add some canned green chiles for a Tex Mex twist If you do not have bacon a little smoked paprika in the filling adds a similar smoky note

Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines with a crisp green salad or simple steamed green beans I sometimes serve it with a side of tangy pickles or even drizzled with hot sauce on the plate It also makes a great potluck dish since you can assemble ahead and bake on site

A Bit of History

Cowboy casserole recipes first gained fame at Midwestern potlucks and church suppers For me it is pure nostalgia and the kind of dish that turns a regular dinner into a festive occasion Even now every bite brings me back to family gatherings and the simple warmth of shared comfort food

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted for ground beef. Adjust seasoning to enhance flavor if needed.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Try a homemade béchamel sauce or substitute with cream of chicken soup for a slightly different flavor.

→ How do I make the tater tots extra crispy?

Ensure the tots are arranged in a single layer and bake uncovered. For extra crispness, broil for the last few minutes while keeping a close eye.

→ Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, peas, or even sautéed mushrooms can be added to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.