Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe

If you're craving a filling, savory, and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor, then look no further than the Cattle Drive Casserole. This robust dish is a modern twist on hearty cowboy-style meals traditionally eaten on cattle drives. Packed with seasoned ground beef, hearty potatoes, and layers of gooey cheese, this casserole is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite. Read on for the complete recipe, plus tips and variations to make it your own!

this Recipe

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What is a Cattle Drive Casserole?

Cattle Drive Casserole is a rustic, stick-to-your-ribs dish that features ground beef, cheese, potatoes, and a creamy sauce baked to perfection. It’s a hearty casserole that can be easily customized with your favorite veggies or spices. Think of it as a cowboy-inspired meal, full of comforting ingredients that can be prepared with ease and serve a group of people. This dish is a perfect one-pot meal that saves time and brings a rich combination of flavors and textures.

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Ingredients List for Cattle Drive Casserole

Before we jump into the recipe, here are the essential ingredients you'll need to create a delicious cattle drive casserole. These ingredients are easy to find and can be swapped or adjusted based on your preferences.

1. Ground beef (1.5 lbs) – Lean ground beef works well, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken.
2. Yellow onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds flavor and texture to the beef mixture.
3. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle garlicky kick.
4. Cream of mushroom soup (1 can) – Provides a creamy base. You can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery if preferred.
5. Sour cream (1 cup) – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the dish.
6. Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz) – Brings some acidity and spice to balance out the richness.
7. Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups) – Melted cheese gives the casserole a gooey, cheesy top.
8. Frozen or canned corn (1 cup) – Adds sweetness and texture. You can also use mixed veggies.
9. Frozen hash brown potatoes (3 cups) – Potatoes provide a crispy, hearty layer. You can substitute with thinly sliced fresh potatoes.
10. Chili powder (1 tsp) – Brings a touch of warmth to the dish.
11. Cumin (1 tsp) – Adds earthy, smoky flavor.
12. Paprika (1 tsp) – For an additional depth of flavor.
13. Salt and pepper (to taste) – For seasoning.
14. Green onions (optional, for garnish) – For a fresh pop of color and flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

Cattle Drive Casserole is highly versatile. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Meat: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative or skip the meat entirely and load up on beans and veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for varying levels of creaminess and spice.
• Potatoes: Instead of frozen hash browns, try using thinly sliced russet potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
• Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the beef mixture.
• Cream Soup: For a different creamy base, use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even make your own homemade white sauce if you prefer less processed ingredients.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and potential variations in mind, it’s time to assemble this delicious casserole. Follow these easy steps for a satisfying and hearty cattle drive casserole.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly once everything is assembled.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

3. Add Onions and Garlic

To the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.

4. Season the Beef

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef and onion mixture.

5. Add Creamy Ingredients

Next, add the can of cream of mushroom soup and the sour cream to the skillet. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.

6. Add Tomatoes and Corn

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain) and the corn. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed and combined. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

7. Layer in a Casserole Dish

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.

8. Add Hash Browns and Cheese

Spread the frozen hash brown potatoes over the beef mixture in an even layer. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the hash browns.

9. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

10. Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor, if desired.

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How to Cook Cattle Drive Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Meat: Start by browning the ground beef, making sure to break it up well.
2. Add Flavor: Mix in onions, garlic, and spices to develop the rich flavors that are key to this dish.
3. Create the Creamy Mixture: Stir in the creamy soup, sour cream, tomatoes, and corn to create the base layer.
4. Layer the Dish: Pour the beef mixture into the baking dish, followed by a layer of hash browns and then cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the oven until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Drain: Be sure to drain any excess grease from the ground beef after browning. Too much grease will make your casserole oily and heavy.
• Undercooked Potatoes: If you’re using fresh sliced potatoes instead of hash browns, make sure they are cut thin enough to cook through in the allotted time.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Taste your beef mixture before layering it in the casserole dish. Make sure it’s properly seasoned, as this is the base flavor of your casserole.
• Overcooking: Watch your casserole closely in the oven. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, but not burnt.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

While cattle drive casserole is a rustic dish, there are a few simple touches you can add to make it visually appealing and appetizing:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the top to add color and freshness.
• Serve with Sides: This casserole pairs perfectly with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Cornbread is also a great side option.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For a more authentic presentation, you can assemble and bake the casserole in a large cast iron skillet.

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How to Serve Cattle Drive Casserole

When it comes to serving this hearty casserole, scoop it into generous portions. Since this is a rich dish, serving it with lighter sides like a crisp salad or steamed veggies will help balance the meal. If you’re hosting a larger gathering, serve family-style, allowing guests to help themselves.

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Presentation Ideas for Cattle Drive Casserole

• Individual Portions: Serve the casserole in smaller, individual-sized dishes for a more elegant presentation.
• Cast Iron Presentation: Bake the casserole in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, cowboy-style presentation that looks great on the table.
• Garnish for Color: Top with chopped green onions, cilantro, or jalapeños for a pop of green against the cheesy, golden top.

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Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prep.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Adjust for Spiciness: Control the heat level by adjusting the amount of diced tomatoes with green chilies or using a milder version.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes! Thinly slice fresh potatoes, but ensure they are fully cooked by baking the casserole for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or add more beans and veggies.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: What can I serve with cattle drive casserole?
A: This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables.

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Conclusion

Cattle Drive Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole delivers every time. With layers of savory ground beef, crispy potatoes, and melty cheese, this cowboy-inspired meal is sure to satisfy any appetite. Be sure to try the variations and customize the recipe to fit your taste!

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